Digital Business Service T Level

Learn the essentials of all digital roles on this T Level by understanding data and digital systems, how software and business interact, security, testing, planning and legal issues. You can then build on this by developing specialist skills as a Data Technician to understand how to source, analyse and interpret data to support business needs

The possibilities expand further when this data is applied to techniques such as machine learning and artificial intelligence - incredibly complex calculations or tasks being carried out in a fraction of the time it takes a human. Deepfake technology that can mimic the voice or appearance of a specific person. Even machine learning systems that can accurately predict illness in patients by processing medical records. If there is an industry that could be considered a real-life science fiction, data science is it.

As a result of this exponential growth in data, and the systems surrounding it. There has never been more demand for data scientists, and more opportunity for those who make it their career.

A Data Science T Level at Oldham College is the first step on that career path. You will learn a variety of skills not only in data science, but also the fundamental digital knowledge needed to apply these skills.

In the first year this will include:

• Data manipulation and processing
• Algorithm and programming concepts
• Network and cyber security
• Hardware and software components of digital systems
• Software and system testing
• Project management
• How to make sure you understand and adhere to relevant legislation.

You will then move onto your occupational specialism year of data technician, which will include topics such as:

• How to source and manipulate data for analysis
• Techniques to blend and join data.
• Statistical methodologies
• Predictive analytics
• Machine learning fundamentals

This will all be taught in an industry-relevant way using practical project work and classroom workshops. These skills are then supported and built upon by a 45-day industry placement with a real-world digital employer. This combination of learning ensures that you have a rich technical knowledge and accelerates your ability to apply your learning in the workplace, becoming part of a team of digital experts.

You’ll be assessed through a mix of externally set exams, an employer-set project covering the core units, and a synoptic project that brings together everything you’ve learned through tasks like presentations, practical work, and building a portfolio. You’ll collaborate with classmates to solve problems, design solutions, and build and test software, while also developing the skills to work ethically and manage risks in line with industry regulations.