FAQ

The length of time to achieve a qualification will depend on your current experience using a computer.  For those new to using computers it will take longer as you will carry out a significant amount of learning.  For those with some experience the amount of learning is reduced therefore you should achieve more quickly.

The terms Level 1 and Level 2 come from the qualifications framework.  

Level 1 is described as competence which involves the application of knowledge and skills to a range of varied work activities, most of which may be routine or predictable.

Level 2 is described as competence which involves the application of knowledge and skills in a significant range of varied work activities, performed in a variety of contexts. Some of the activities are complex or non-routine, and there is some individual responsibility and autonomy. Collaboration with others, perhaps through membership of a work group or team, may often be a requirement.

The right course for you will depend on what your goals are in relation to using the computer. If you are a novice but need to develop sound IT skills for work purposes to create professional documents then a Level 2 maybe appropriate.  If you only need to use the computer occasionally and to produce simple documents a Level 1 qualification might be all you need. 

To ensure you are on the right course a tutor will discuss your choice of qualification levels with you and provide tailored advice and guidance.

Some qualifications are free as they are a government priority.  The government wants to upskill the UK workforce and encourage individuals to achieve a level 2 qualification, therefore funding is available to support those learners to achieve a level 2.

Those qualifications that are not a priority attract less funding and therefore a cost is charged.

OCR stands for Oxford Cambridge and RSA, and is a UK awarding organisations.

On completion of your learning you will undertake an IT assignment at the end of each unit.  This is marked by the centre tutors and sent off for moderation to OCR, who then confirms achievement of assignment.