At New Heys we recognise the importance of the development of ICT skills for the modern world. In Years 12 and 13 the opportunity exists to take Applied Information and Communication Technology to AS and A2 Level. Looking at information systems whilst developing advanced skills in the use of software students are prepared for Higher Education or the world of work.

The Syllabus covered is an interesting one and being modular provides great flexibility in its approach. Students on the AS Level programme study three units of work. One unit is assessed by the completion of an exam board set assignment in the ICT room and the other two involve the presentation of a portfolio of evidence covering the assessment requirements. Unit 1 covers ICT and its influence on society, unit 2 covers ICT and organisations and unit 3 covers aspects of handling data using software packages. Students continuing on for the A2 programme study three further units of work. As in the AS level, one unit is assessed by the completion of an exam board set assignment in the ICT room and the other two involve the presentation of a portfolio of evidence covering the assessment requirements. Unit 8 is compulsory for A2 and covers managing a real world project, Unit 10 is also compulsory and involves using spreadsheet software. The last unit can involve either Desk Top Publishing or Multimedia Presentation work depending on the students choice.
Practical project ideas can be chosen by the student and must relate to real world situations. Using application packages students develop software solutions for users such as small businesses or clubs and societies in which they may have an interest.

The course provides a knowledge and skills foundation for the modern world and combines well with many other A Level subject choices.