Departmental contact
Mr Johnson – [email protected]
Examining board & Qualification
Pearson – BTEC Level 3
Entry requirements
Please see current prospectus for further information
WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT?
This course is intended as a Tech Level qualification and equivalent to one A level. The course provides preparation for entry level roles in the industry, and work briefs are adapted from real world scenarios.
It is great preparation for students who are seriously considering an apprenticeship in the creative and design industries, particularly in the gaming industry.
The course gives you the chance to develop a real understanding of the gaming industry and the contemporary gaming landscape and the hugely influential and growing role and importance to the UK economy of gaming. It helps if you have an interest in the world of gaming, an open and inquisitive mind, creative tendencies and ambition.
Please do not choose this course if you think it’s an easy option or that you will just play games all day!
WHAT SKILLS WILL I DEVELOP?
You will develop the practical, interpersonal and thinking skills required to be able to succeed in employment and higher education.
The course introduces you to media ideas and the practice of production. You will develop your skills in:
- Creative and problem solving skills as well as critical thinking. You will develop a non-routine approach to problem solving.
- Intrapersonal skills such as communication, teamwork, negotiating, influencing and presenting.
- Interpersonal skills such as self-management, adaptability, resilience, self-awareness and development.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
There are two mandatory units:
- Digital Media Skills
- Digital Games Production
and three optional units, which are likely to be:
- Game Engine Scripting
- 3D Modelling
- 3D Environment Design
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Except for Digital Media Skills, all units are assessed with two coursework tasks, a video or presentation about the unit content and a planned game or showcase, both meeting a brief.
Digital Media Skills is assessed with a 20-hour assessment, completed over a week, where students will be given a brief and have to create assets and a game to meet that brief. This will be taken during Spring Term in Year 13.
WHAT ARE MY POST-18 OPTIONS?
This subject will give you an insight into the kinds of careers that exist in the gaming industry. It may give you the inspiration to go on to study further or seek an apprenticeship in the industry.
It will also help you develop the skills required for many degree courses.
WHAT EXTRA-CURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES ARE THERE?
Visits to local gaming companies such as Unit 2 games, opportunities for ambassadors to create games, develop awareness of the course and cultivate links with the industry. Students will have the opportunity to volunteer at the Computing Department’s Gaming and Coding Club with our local primary schools.
