T Level in Digital Support and Security

This course introduces you to the essential systems, skills and behaviours used in IT support and cyber security. You’ll spend time working with real hardware and software, learning how to set up, configure and maintain computers and networks safely. You’ll get hands-on experience diagnosing and fixing technical faults, installing operating systems and updates, and using professional tools to keep devices and data secure. The focus is on real-world digital support, showing you how technology works beneath the surface and building the confidence to troubleshoot issues independently. You’ll learn how to communicate clearly with users, document your work like an industry professional, and respond to cyber threats in a controlled and methodical way. By the end of the course, you’ll have developed the technical and problem-solving skills that employers in IT and cyber roles look for.

An essential part of our T Level course at Shrewsbury College is a dedicated 315-hour industry placement, providing an invaluable opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a practical, professional setting within the digital support services sector.

A minimum of five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English and Maths, or a BTEC level 2 Diploma plus Functional Skills at Level 2.

You’ll cover:

• Problem solving, installation and fault diagnosis: learning to install, configure and maintain hardware, software and networks, and to identify and fix issues when things go wrong

• Digital systems and infrastructure: understanding how computers, servers and devices communicate, and how to build, support and maintain them effectively

• Legislation and data protection: exploring the laws and professional standards that govern how information is stored, shared and protected in the workplace

• Security and risk: discovering how to identify and reduce both cyber and physical vulnerabilities, and how to respond safely to incidents

• Emerging technologies: staying up to date with new tools and trends shaping how digital systems are installed, supported and secured

In your second year, you’ll take these skills further by specialising in one of four areas:

• Digital Support: providing technical assistance, maintaining operating systems and software, and supporting users across an organisation

• Cyber Security: identifying risks, testing defences and advising on how to protect systems and data from attack

Varied assessment methods will be used including exams, synoptic assessment, and an Employer Set Project (ESP). There will be assessments in Year 1 and Year 2.

On completion, students will be able to progress to a higher apprenticeship, skilled employment, or degree-level education.

Students will gain the essential knowledge and skills needed for technical support and cyber roles by learning how digital systems operate, how to install and maintain hardware and software, and how to keep networks and data secure. You’ll develop practical experience in troubleshooting, testing, and system maintenance, while also understanding the importance of planning, documentation, and working within legal and professional standards.

You can apply online via the APPLY button. You can also apply for a second, alternative programme of study such as A Levels via a separate application. If after reading this factsheet, you are still undecided about the course most suitable for you, please drop into one of our open evenings, ring the Admissions Department on 01743 653111, or email admissions@scg.ac.uk