Information Technology

Virtually no business can succeed today without relying on IT systems, which means there is an ongoing demand for skilled IT practitioners. Whether you dream of becoming a software developer, web designer or computer programmer, you need the expertise and know-how offered by an IT course.

What next?
Employment in the IT industry in your area of choice: become a computer programmer, software developer or even start your own business. We offer a full range of courses aimed at all levels, with a proven progression pathway to enter university where you could study an IT degree course.

Potential careers:
Computer games designer: £19k - £35k per year
Network manager: £24k - £47k per year
Software developer: £23k - £40k per year
Techincal support: £13K - £25K per year

Milena Dudek is a radio presenter who got her big break thanks to studying IT at Redbridge College. 

Twenty-one year-old Milena studied BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in IT at Redbridge College and plans to pursue a career in broadcasting.

However, it was her IT skills that first got her spotted in the industry.  

Milena says: “IT skills are important in every single type of work, whatever your job. For my future, studying IT seemed a good decision. In fact, it has turned out to be a very good choice.

"I was initially asked to write some articles for a radio station website - something I wouldn’t have been able to do without my background in IT. And after having some articles published, to my surprise, I was invited to audition as a presenter. I did it once and have stayed ever since.”

Nenko Lilov launched his own commercial website as part of his IT course at Redbridge College.

Twenty year-old Nenko, who also re-designed a local primary school's intranet as part of his BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in IT course, is planning for a a future career in website programming and development.

Nenko says: “I already had an understanding of IT, but the past three years have really helped me to extend my knowledge. My website is very simple and I set it up as part of my coursework at the college.

"The idea behind the site is that users can ask questions about technical support and will receive a response to help resolve their problem. I really hope to be able to develop the site further, perhaps alongside another job in IT.”

On computer screens around an IT classroom at Redbridge College racing cars are revving and aeroplanes being shot down.

Learners studying BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in ICT have developed their own computer games and, led by lecturer Gary, they are now being put to the test.

The computer games industry in Britain had overtaken the film industry in terms of profitability, with more money spent on games than going to the cinema or buying DVDs.

Learners studying IT qualifications at the college study specialized modules including website production, computer animation and database deisgn – in addition to developing computer games.

And Gary believes that there has never been a better time to study a vocational IT qualification.

He says: “The BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in ICT really does give learners a comprehensive introduction to a wide range of IT skills.

“The lessons are very practical and learners also gain the necessary communication skills to be able to work successfully in the IT industry.”

Learner Alvina Baig studied GCSE IT at school before enrolling at the college.

She says: “This is a really practical course. I like the fact that I am able to study a single subject I enjoy every day.”

Meanwhile fellow learner Saqib Kazmi has developed his own game designed to improve people’s typing skills.

He says: “It’s something which I’m very passionate about. I didn’t have any previous knowledge about programming – this course has taught me everything I know.”

Learners from the college have progressed on to degrees in Computer Science or Games Technology in large numbers in recent years.

And the technical skills provided by games related qualifications are increasingly also highly valued by employers in fields like finance and banking.

Gary says: “The skills we teach are transferrable.

“Learners love being able to put their own games together and the skills they are using can be applied to more general programming.”