Computing

This course will interest you if you enjoy working with computers, creating digital content or generally enjoy solving problems.

The NPA in Software Development Level 6 is suitable for a wide range of candidates with the equivalent of Level 4 Computing ability who wish to develop the fundamental knowledge and skills required to solve problems by developing computer programs in a high-level language.

This is a good alternative if your school doesn’t delivery Higher Computing.

The NPA in Software Development at SCQF Level 6 introduces learners to techniques that are important in the IT sector such as: 

• Computing Applications Development
• Computing: Authoring a Website
• Software Design and Development

The principal aim of the qualification is to provide learners with programming skills and prepare them for employment as entry-level computer programmers. As the title indicates, this NPA is entirely focused on software development, including applications and websites.

As part of this qualification, you will:

• Develop knowledge and skills relating to software and web development
• Develop computational thinking skills including problem solving
• Develop transferable skills including Core Skills
• Develop employment skills
• Develop an appreciation of the contemporary IT sector

You need to have a satisfactory level of IT skills e.g., Microsoft Word and understand the general operation/navigation of a Windows based PC.

You must possess an interest in at least one of the following: art, programming, audio, or design.

It would be good if you have played different games and consoles/platforms but not essential as we will discuss a variety of examples throughout.

You should have completed the NPA in Software Development at SCQF Level 4 or be able to demonstrate a similar skill level in coding.

You will be expected to create a portfolio of your work. The portfolio may be paper or electronic (digital) and should be completed over the period of the course, with you contributing material to the portfolio on an ongoing basis. This will be a combination of practical and knowledge-based assessments.

Classes are 2 afternoons a week at Kilmarnock campus – Tuesday and Thursday 2-4pm.

You will study the following units:

• Computing: Applications Development
• Computing: Authoring a Website
• Software Design and Development

These include learning languages such as HTML, CSS, C#, and Python. The classes are very practical with some theory and written assessments. By the end of the course you will have produced a small software application and website.

Successful completion of the Level 6 course may allow you to progress to:

• NC Computing at level 6
• NC Games and Software Development
• HNC Computing courses depending on your Nat 5s and/or Highers at C grade or above.