Application Instructions
Before submitting your application to Wilberforce Sixth Form College, please ensure the following information has been included:
- Personal Details – including your home address, email address, contact number and school.
- Predicted Grades – a full list of all your predicted grades.
Once your application is submitted, we will contact you via your personal email address. If you wish to change your course choices, this can be done at your interview—there is no need to submit a new application.
For further information or assistance, please contact liaison@wilberforce.ac.uk
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Course Summary
The T Level in Digital Support Services (Cybersecurity Specialism) is a two-year qualification designed for students seeking a career in cybersecurity and software development. Equivalent to three A Levels, this course blends academic theory with practical learning, including a substantial industry placement that prepares you for work or further study.
You will build a strong foundation in IT systems, digital infrastructure, software tools, and cybersecurity protocols. As you specialise, you will learn how to protect systems from cyber threats, develop secure software, and respond to digital incidents using real-world techniques and technologies.
This course can lead directly into employment, apprenticeships, or university degrees. Career paths may include:
Cybersecurity Technician
SOC (Security Operations Centre) Analyst
Penetration Tester
Junior Software Developer
Digital Forensics Analyst
IT Support Specialist
Industry Placement
You will complete a minimum of 315 hours (approximately 45 days) working with an employer in the digital sector. This experience allows you to:
Apply digital skills in a real-world environment
Observe how cybersecurity strategies are implemented
Gain confidence and develop contacts for future employment
Who Is This Course Aimed At?
This course is suitable for students aged 16–19 who:
Are interested in a career in IT, cybersecurity, or digital services
Prefer practical learning and real-world experience to a purely academic route
Want to gain industry skills and workplace insight before entering employment or university
Are motivated to develop technical expertise and professional skills
Course Details
What Will You Learn?
Core Component
In your first year, you will study key digital concepts such as:
Software and cloud platforms
Digital infrastructure and networks
Data management and cyber hygiene
Emerging technologies
Cybersecurity principles and professional standards
Business environments and legislation
IT project and change management
Occupational Specialism: Digital Support – Cybersecurity
In the second year, you will specialise in cybersecurity and secure system support, including:
Network configuration and secure IT systems
Threat detection, response, and resolution
Penetration testing and vulnerability assessments
Cyber incident reporting and forensic investigation
Legal compliance and industry standards
Industry Placement and Real-World Application
Your placement comprises 20% of the course and is supported by 80% classroom-based learning. During your placement, you’ll gain first-hand experience working with IT professionals, cybersecurity specialists, or software developers. This unique mix of learning environments ensures you leave the course with practical, transferable skills and job-ready experience.
How will it be delivered and assessed?
Assessment and Qualifications
You will be assessed through:
Two externally set written exams
An employer-set project based on a real-world digital brief
Practical assignments in your specialism
Assessment of your professional behaviours and placement engagement
Final Qualification:
T Level in Digital Support Services (Cybersecurity)
Awarded by: Pearson
UCAS Points: Up to 168 (equivalent to 3 A Levels)
Progression Options: University, higher apprenticeship, or direct employment
Entry requirements
To enrol on this course, you must have:
A minimum of five GCSEs at grades 9–4, including:
English Language
Mathematics
Science
An average GCSE score of 5.3 or above
A keen interest in technology, systems, and security
Your next steps...
Experiences – Hands-on Learning Beyond the Classroom
Students will have access to a variety of enrichment and skills-building experiences, including:
Visits to EGX London, the UK's biggest gaming and technology expo
Participation in the Wilberforce Upskilling Programme, including coding clubs, esports teams, and digital production workshops
Guest lectures and masterclasses from working professionals in cybersecurity, software engineering, and digital innovation
These experiences help bring your learning to life while building your confidence, creativity, and professional awareness.
Progression – Where Can This Course Take You?
Outcomes – Your Future Career in Digital
The T Level provides a strong foundation for entering the workplace or continuing your education. You will be well equipped to pursue a range of digital careers or further study.
Career Pathways Include:
Cybersecurity Technician
Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker)
SOC Analyst
Junior Software Developer
Network Security Engineer
Digital Forensics Analyst
Cyber Risk Consultant
IT Infrastructure Technician
Information Security Officer
Higher Apprenticeship Options:
Cyber Security Technologist (Level 4)
Network Engineer (Level 4)
Software Developer (Level 4)
Digital and Technology Solutions Professional (Level 6)
University Degree Progression Could Include:
BSc (Hons) Cyber Security
BSc (Hons) Computer Science
BSc (Hons) Digital Forensics and Cybercrime
BSc (Hons) Ethical Hacking
BSc (Hons) Software Engineering
BEng (Hons) Computer Networks and Security
With a T Level qualification, you'll have both the academic grounding and the workplace experience to progress confidently into any of these pathways.
Additional information
For more courses like this, check our courses page.
