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ICT Level 3

Programme overview

This course supports individuals who are passionate about using technology to improve business operations and user experiences.

Apprentices learn how to deliver efficient IT support, diagnose and resolve technical issues, and maintain secure and reliable digital systems.

After successfully completing the programme, staff will be qualified IT support technicians and be able to apply the right tools and techniques to optimise system performance and provide effective technical solutions. 

Apprenticeship start date (Autumn): 6th October

 

 

Key details

Funding
Duration
Delivery
On-the-job/study split

Funding

Maximum funding : £15,000

The full cost of training is covered through the Apprenticeship Levy or government co-funding, meaning it is completely FREE for the learner.

Levy-paying employers can use their levy funds to cover 100% of the training costs. Non-levy employers contribute just 5% (£750), with the government funding the remaining 95%.

You can get £1,000 for your school budget if you upskill or hire an apprentice and they are aged 16 to 18 years old.

Duration

Typical duration : 18 months

The programme consists of 15 months of active learning, followed by a 3-month End-Points Assessment (EPA) period, making the total length around 18 months.

Learners with prior  experience may complete it faster through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Delivery

Blended learning with 1-1 support

The course combines online and face-to-face learning with:

  • Live virtual sessions and recorded resources for flexibility
  • Regular one-to-one tutor support for personalised guidance
  • Workplace mentoring and applied learning

On-the-job/study split

80/20

Apprentices must spend at least 20% of their working hours on off-the-job training. This doesn’t mean a day a week in a classroom but includes:

  • Training sessions and coursework
  • Shadowing experienced colleagues
  • Work-based projects linked to the apprenticeship

 

Modules

  1. Tech Support and Service
  2. Fault Diagnosis and Trouble Shooting
  3. ICT Security and Compliance  
  4. Software and Hardware Set Up
  5. Networking and Infrastructure
  6. Asset Management and Documentation
  7. Testing and Maintenance
  8. Remote and On-Site Support
  9. Cloud Computing and System Admin  
  10. Professional and Ethical Practice  

How it works

Programme structure
Assessment
Eligibility criteria
Support during the apprenticeship
What employers need to do
After the apprenticeship

Programme structure

An apprenticeship is made up of two key stages:

The Practical Period (On-Programme Learning)
This is the main learning phase of the apprenticeship, where apprentices develop the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed for their role. They will complete a mix of workplace training, online learning, assignments, and practical tasks, all supported by their Programme Lead and workplace mentor.

Gateway and End-Point Assessment (EPA)
Once an apprentice has completed their training and is confident in their role, they go through “Gateway,” where their employer and Programme Lead confirm they are ready for the final assessment. The End-Point Assessment is a formal process where apprentices demonstrate what they’ve learned through a combination of assessment methods depending on their apprenticeship programme.

 

Assessment

Programme Leads and Tutors will check apprentices’ understanding using informal question-and-answer sessions, quizzes, assignments, reflections, and other suitable methods such as:

  • Observations
  • Professional discussions
  • Portfolio reviews
  • Self-assessments
  • Workplace projects

End Point Assessment (EPA)

The End Point Assessment (EPA) is where apprentices demonstrate their competency in the role by completing a formal assessment at the end of their apprenticeship. The specific EPA requirements vary by programme:

  • Knowledge test
  • Case study presentation
  • Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio

Eligibility criteria

Apprentices can join this new course with little to no prior experience. While some classroom experience is beneficial, it is not essential. 

It is a requirement to provide evidence of GCSE English and maths (minimum Grade 9/C) or equivalent. If applicants are unable to provide evidence, they may be required by their employer to achieve Functional Skills Level 2 in these subjects and are supported in completing these alongside their apprenticeship. 

Support during the apprenticeship

Apprentices 

  • Apprentices are supported through monthly webinars, drop-in support sessions, individual 1:1 support and workplace mentors.  
  • Apprentices are provided with the necessary resources to support their learning throughout.

What employers need to do

Apprenticeships work as an agreement between United Apprenticeships, the employer, and the apprentice.  Positive collaboration between the three parties allows the apprentice to gain the best value from their apprenticeship and for the organisation to gain optimal benefits from the apprentice’s work.

It is the employer’s responsibility to: 

  • Assign a suitable workplace mentor who can support and guide the apprentice throughout the programme
  • Allocate 6.5 hours a week ‘off-the-job’ time for apprentices  
  • Invited to attend mentor briefings to enable them to support their apprentice
  • Have access to the Programme Lead
  • Attend learner progress reviews

After the apprenticeship

Gaining an industry Level 3 Information Communications Technician qualification means apprentices will be equipped for roles in IT support across various sectors, including businesses, public services, and technology firms. 

They will also be eligible to become a RITTech (Registered IT Technician) from BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT.

 

Apply now