Introduction to Computing (Schools)
***PLEASE NOTE - only pupils who will be at school during session 2026/27 can apply for this course***
This one-year course is open to pupils in S4 and S5 and is an ideal first step for anyone considering a career in the IT industry.
Students gain experience in a mixture of the different specialities within computing, including technical support, software development, cyber security and networking.
This course will run on Tuesday & Thursday 1.40pm - 4.25pm
Please note that the course you are applying for is split across two sessions. When submitting your application, the dates displayed will be for the June Induction in session 2025/26. Once successfully enrolled on this session, you will automatically be transferred to the 2026/27 session, which begins in August, for the remainder of the course.
Content
You will study the following topics at SCQF Level 5:
- Computing: Website Design and Development;
- Software Design and Development;
- Programming for Mobile Devices;
- Computing: Computer Hardware and Systems;
- Computing: Computer Networking Fundamentals;
- Data Security
Career Paths
- With further study, you will be able to progress to a variety of different careers in the IT industry, across the disciplines of technical support, software development, cyber security and networking.
Progression
Entry requirements
- Pupils must have a minimum of four Nat 4s, including English & Maths (or Applications of Maths) and preferably Computing or sitting them at Nat 5 level alongside doing this course.
Pupils must also:
- be IT literate as this course does not cover basic IT skills
More Info
Further advice for School College Programme and Foundation Apprenticeship applications:
• Please ensure you have an online account before starting your application
• If you created your account prior to March 2025, you will need to register a new account
• Before starting the application process, please ensure you already hold or are working towards the relevant entry qualifications required for the course you are applying for
• Ensure you use your own personal email address when creating your online account
• Once you have submitted your application, you will receive an automated email immediately
• If you do not receive an acknowledgement e-mail immediately, please check your SPAM/Junk folder
• Please include as much detail as possible in your personal statement such as; the reason you are applying, future career plans, relevant experience, hobbies and interests
• Disclosing support needs in your application will not affect your chances of being offered a place on a course at Forth Valley College
• If your application is successful, you will be invited to an information session
• If your application is unsuccessful, you should speak to a guidance teacher or SDS school liaison officer.
• If you are unable to attend the information session or wish to withdraw your application, please email the School Partnership team - school.partnership@forthvalley.ac.uk