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T Level in Digital Support and Security (Cyber Security)

duration

2 Years

Level

Level 3 (Equivalent to 3 A Levels) 

Course Overview

The T Level in Digital Support and Security (Cyber Security) is a two‑year advanced qualification designed for learners aged 16–19 who are passionate about technology, digital systems, and protecting organisations from cyber threats.

Cyber Security is one of the fastest‑growing sectors in the digital world. From safeguarding data to responding to cyber incidents, skilled professionals are in high demand across every industry—including government, finance, healthcare, engineering, education, and defence.

This T Level provides students with:

  • A strong foundation in core digital and cyber concepts

  • Hands‑on experience investigating, preventing, and responding to security risks

  • Professional behaviours and workplace skills needed for modern IT environments

  • A substantial industry placement (minimum 315 hours) with a real employer, giving learners experience of digital support, cyber awareness, or security operations

The programme blends classroom learning with practical, industry‑aligned skills—preparing students to progress confidently into an apprenticeship, employment, or further study.

What You Will Study?

Students will explore a broad range of digital and cyber‑focused topics that develop both technical knowledge and real‑world skills. Areas include:

Core Digital Knowledge (Year 1)

  • Understanding the digital landscape and emerging technologies

  • How organisations use digital systems

  • Network fundamentals and infrastructure

  • Information security principles

  • Data management and regulation

  • Testing, troubleshooting, and digital problem‑solving

  • Business environment and professional behaviours

  • Creating secure digital solutions

Cyber Security & Specialist Content (Year 2)

  • Preventing cyber attacks

    • Malware, phishing, social engineering, insider threats

    • Designing and applying security measures

  • Digital Forensics

    • Investigating incidents

    • Analysing digital evidence

    • Reporting and documenting findings

  • Network and System Security

    • Firewalls, encryption, access control

    • Risk assessments and vulnerability testing

  • Cyber Policies, Compliance & Ethics

    • GDPR, legal frameworks, organisational policies

  • Supporting users and maintaining secure systems

    • Providing professional digital support

    • Monitoring and updating security tools

Students also complete a real Employer‑Set Project (ESP) where they respond to an industry scenario, demonstrate technical problem‑solving, and present professional documentation. 

Assessment

Year 1

  • Two Core Exams – covering digital concepts, legislation, security fundamentals, and industry practice

  • Employer‑Set Project (ESP) – a practical challenge set by industry experts

Year 2

  • Occupational Specialism (Digital Support & Cyber Security)

    • Large practical assignments

    • Realistic work‑based tasks

    • Demonstrating competence in secure digital support

Students can achieve grades: PPP, MMM, or DDD.

Entry Requirements

To join this T Level, learners need:

  • Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE English

  • Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE Maths

A passion for IT, problem‑solving, and digital technologies is strongly recommended.

Progression Opportunities

Cyber Security and digital support are rapidly expanding sectors with excellent career prospects. After completing this T Level, students can progress into:

Employment or Apprenticeships

  • IT Support Technician

  • Cyber Security Technician

  • Security Operations Centre (SOC) Analyst

  • Network Technician

  • Digital Service Technician

  • Cyber/Information Security Apprentice

  • Digital Infrastructure Support

Further & Higher Education

  • Cyber Security Degrees

  • Digital Forensics Degrees

  • Computer Science

  • Networking & Infrastructure

  • Software Engineering

  • Degree Apprenticeships

Students will graduate with strong practical skills and workplace experience, making them highly competitive for both employment and university routes.

Find Out More

For further information about the course, assessment, or how to apply, please speak to Debbie Collins
We are here to help you choose the right digital pathway for your future career. 

Contact us here