1 Year

Level 3 (Equivalent to 1 A Level)

The Pre‑T Level in Cyber Security is a one‑year, Level 3 qualification designed for learners who want to develop the core digital and security skills needed before progressing to the full T Level in Digital Support and Security.

This programme provides a strong introduction to cyber security principles, helping students understand how digital systems are protected, how attacks occur, and how organisations respond to security incidents. It blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on investigation, analysis, and practical problem‑solving.

The course is ideal for learners who are interested in careers in IT, networking, digital support, cyber analysis, and digital forensics — or who simply want a strong technical foundation before moving into more advanced study.

Students will explore a wide range of essential cyber and digital security topics, including:

• Preventing Cyber Attacks
  Understanding the different types of attacks, including malware, phishing, social engineering, viruses, and insider threats, and how organisations defend against them.

• Digital Forensics & Investigation
  Learning how to collect, analyse, and interpret digital evidence, investigate system breaches, and document findings professionally.

• Fundamentals of Cyber Security
  Exploring secure system design, risk management, network security concepts, user behaviours, and the legal and ethical frameworks surrounding cyber security.

Across all units, learners develop technical troubleshooting skills, digital problem‑solving abilities, and professional behaviours essential for working in modern IT environments.

Learners can achieve the following grades: Pass, Merit, or Distinction.

Assessment is a mixture of exams and coursework to ensure learners develop both knowledge and applied skills:

• 2 Mandatory Exams
  Covering core cyber principles, security concepts, and digital technologies.

• 1 Mandatory Coursework Unit
  Applying learning to a cyber security scenario with written and/or practical elements.

• 2 Optional Coursework Units
  Allowing students to focus on areas of personal interest, such as forensics, system security, or digital support. 

To join the programme, learners need:

• Minimum Grade 3 in GCSE English

• Minimum Grade 3 in GCSE Maths

A keen interest in digital technologies and problem-solving is strongly recommended.

Completing the Pre‑T Level provides a clear and supported route into the full T Level qualification:

Progression to:

• T Level in Digital Support and Security
  (Cyber Security Pathway)

Once learners progress to the T Level, they can access a wide range of future pathways, including:

• Cyber Security Technician

• Digital Support Technician

• SOC (Security Operations Centre) Analyst

• Network or Infrastructure Technician

• Digital Forensics roles

• Cyber Apprenticeships

• Higher Education in Cyber Security, Computer Science, or Digital Systems

The Pre‑T Level gives students the confidence, skills, and knowledge required to succeed on these more advanced programmes.

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.

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