IT most popular choice on QCF

Two qualifications provided by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, were the most popular on the Qualifications and Credit Framework, according to recent Ofqual statistics.

The figures reveal the two IT qualifications – BCS Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ECDL Essentials) and BCS Level 2 Certificate in IT User Skills (ECDL Extra) – are becoming more widespread.

Martyn Lambert, director of qualifications at BCS, said: “I don’t think this result is particularly surprising, given that seventy seven per cent of jobs require IT skills and the IT sector is currently one of the strongest sectors in terms of job growth.

“We need to ensure that students leave schools with the IT skills that employers want. With stiff competition for even entry-level office jobs, everyone has to go that little bit further to secure employment, and for students, qualifications such as ECDL are a great way of demonstrating their aptitude in the absence of work experience.

“Many people put ‘computer skills’ on their CVs, but having a qualification such as the ECDL proves you have the core IT skills employers are looking for.”

The BCS institute delivers IT qualification skills across the UK, including the recently approved European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) by the DfE.

ECDL is a recognised global standard qualification, providing proof of competency in the effective use of IT, currently working with nearly 2000 education and training centres in the UK.

These include training providers, schools, FE colleges, universities and government organisations.

BCS qualifications cover all areas of digital literacy, including understanding spread sheets, presentation software, animation, video editing and social networking safety.

Lambert explained: “The Institute has been providing qualifications to schools for over 20 years. During this time we have seen technology change with the introduction of social media through to internet-enabled smartphones and tablets.

“As the Chartered Institute for IT, we constantly review and improve our qualifications, ensuring they reflect the latest technologies.”

Syema Majeed