Digital Systems and Data

What are V-Levels? 

V Levels are new flagship vocational qualifications that sit alongside A Levels and T Levels. They are designed for students who want vocational learning, real-world skills with the flexibility to keep their options open. 

Why study the V Level in Digital Systems and Data? 

V Levels are new applied vocational qualifications for 16 to 19 learners in England. They are designed to: 

• Offer applied learning within broad vocational areas 
• Be equivalent in size to one A Level 
• Be studied alongside A Levels and other funded Level 3 qualifications. 

This flexibility means students can build programmes that keep academic and vocational doors open. 

V Levels offer: 

• A flexible, career-focused alternative at Level 3 –they combine applied learning with sector-based knowledgeto help you explore careers without specialising too early 
• Practical, transferable skills, linked to real jobs, that employersand higher education value 
• Clear, high-quality pathways. Take V levels as a full study programme or combine with other Level 3 qualifications such as A Levels. They are designed to provide clear progression routes into higher education, apprenticeships, and careers, helping you take your next step with the knowledge, skills and confidence  

Digital Systems and Data 

Digital Systems and Data is for students who are interested in how technology, data and digital systems are used to solve problems and support organisations. You will develop applied skills in working with data, understanding digital systems, recognising cyber security risks, and designing or configuring digital solutions in realistic contexts. 

Entry requirements 

The following requirements are essential as foundation for this course, either: 

• Grade 4 or above GCSE Computer Science/ Media Studies 
• Level 2 Pass or above in Cambridge Nationals IT or Creative iMedia Certificate 
• Equivalencies in other vocational  qualifications or high points scores in other subjects 

How will I be assessed? 

• 60% non-exam assessment 
• 40% exam 

What you’ll learn: 

Understand digital systems, security and support

• The hardware, software and networks that support digital services  
• User accounts, authentication and secure access  
• System security, testing and technical support 

Work with data to support decision making 

• How data is collected, prepared and analysed  
• Identifying trends, patterns and insights from data  
• Presenting information clearly to support decisions and actions  

Protect digital systems and information  

• Common cyber security threats and risks  
• Monitoring systems and recognising potential security concerns  
• Applying protective measures and responding appropriately to risks  

Understand how digital solutions are designed and developed  

• Understanding user needs and requirements  
• Problem-solving and digital solution design approaches  
• Communication, collaboration and stakeholder engagement  

Use digital technologies responsibly and effectively 

• The ethical, legal and responsible use of technology and data  
• The role of AI and automated systems in modern digital workplaces 

Career Opportunities 

• Higher education degrees linked to digital and technology subjects, such as Computer Science, Computing, Data Science, Cyber Security, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Business Information Systems and Digital Technology Solutions 
• Level 4 apprenticeship in areas such as Data Analysis, Software Development, Business Analysis and Cyber Security and at Level 5 in Data Engineering 
• Careers in data analysis, cyber security, software development, IT support, digital systems and business analysis 

Staff

The following members of staff form the ICT and Computing department at King Edward VI School, Lichfield: