Brompton Academy

Information Technology

What kind of person do I need to be? Right from the start you will need to have good IT skills and show that you are committed to keeping up to date with the latest developments. Perhaps you are already familiar with computer operating systems or know something about database systems? You may even have gained some knowledge of hardware, software and programming language. Whatever your skills, you will need to prove that you can adapt to a constantly changing environment and demonstrate that you can solve problems by coming up with creative solutions. The ability to interpret and follow technical plans, pay attention to detail, keep accurate records and maintain health and safety are also important aspects of working in IT. Not everyone will have your technical expertise, you will also need to be capable of explaining technical issues clearly to people at all levels. How do I get there? There are several different routes you can follow if you want to work in IT. Some job roles will require you to study at degree level and there are oppor tunities for you to build upon your qualifications fur ther by studying for a master’s degree or a PhD. Postgraduate conversion courses are available if your degree was not in an IT related subject or you could take advantage of a graduate trainee scheme as offered by some large companies. Higher National Diploma and Foundation Degree courses offer alternative progression routes. Some careers in IT require no formal qualifications but you will improve your chances of finding employment by studying for a relevant cer tificate or diploma at Level 3. Apprenticeships are also available as well as other on-the-job training oppor tunities. Experience in IT or a related area is always useful so it’s wor th trying to secure an appropriate work placement, internship or a year in industry.

What skills will I learn? Working with IT will equip you with a range of specific technical skills depending upon your chosen specialism or career path. You could learn how to run computer operating systems, manage hardware and software applications, design IT networks using state-of-the-ar t technology, maintain databases, work with multimedia or gain an understanding of telecommunications and signal processing. Cer tain sectors will provide you with the oppor tunity to gain experience of project management, develop your commercial awareness, foster your client management skills and encourage you to communicate the business benefits of IT.