INTRODUCTION
Thank you for your interest in studying Computing or Game Design at NKC Dartford College. Whether you have applied for Level 2 Information Technology, Level 2 Games, Level 3 Games or the T Level in Digital Software Development, this page will help you prepare for the application process.
Our courses combine technical knowledge with practical, hands-on learning. Depending on your chosen course, you may explore programming, data, cybersecurity, cloud computing, digital systems, game design, animation, and creative production. You will learn using industry-standard tools and develop the skills, confidence, and professional behaviors needed for further study, apprenticeship or employment.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Level 2 Information & Creative Technology - Four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English and Maths.
Level 2 Creative Media Skills - Four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English and Maths.
Level 3 Creative Media (Games Design) - Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths.
T Level Digital Software Development - Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths.
Your interview, research task, and taster day will also help us decide whether the course is the right match for you.
SCHOOL REPORT & GRADE SHEET
Applicants aged under 19 should bring a copy of their most recent school or college report and, where available, their predicted grades. If you have already completed a qualification, please bring confirmation of your achieved grades
INTERVIEW TASK
Before your interview day, complete a short, independent research task about one current or emerging trend in computing or gaming, which must be a MINIMUM of 300 words.
You may choose one of the following topics, or another relevant development that interests you:
- Artificial intelligence and how it is changing work, learning or software development
- Cybersecurity and the growing need to protect people, organisations and data
- Cloud computing and how online services store, process and share information
- Virtual reality, augmented reality or mixed reality
- Emerging gaming technology, such as game engines, immersive play, accessibility or artificial intelligence in games
- Another current computing or gaming development of your choice
Your research should explain:
- What the technology or trend is
- How it is currently being used
- One benefit and one possible risk or challenge
- Why you chose it and what interests you about it
Write in your own words and keep a short list of the websites or other sources you used. We are interested in your ideas and understanding, not perfect technical language. Be ready to discuss your work with the tutor.
WHAT WILL HAPPEN ON THE DAY?
You will be interviewed by a member of the Computing and Game Design team. The interview is a two-way conversation: it helps us understand you, and it gives you the opportunity to understand the course before making your decision.
- A tutor will welcome you and check that you have the information needed for the interview.
- You will discuss your interests, your reasons for choosing the course, and what you hope to do in the future.
- The tutor will ask you about your 300-word research task and may ask follow-up questions about your chosen topic.
- The tutor will consider your preparation, interest in the subject, communication, and readiness for the course and level you have applied for.
- You will receive a clear explanation of the course, including practical work, assessment, independent study, and possible progression routes.
- The tutor will explain our expectations for attendance, punctuality, behavior, meeting deadlines, and taking responsibility for your learning.
- You will have time to ask questions.
WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING?
Please bring:
- Your completed 300-word research task, as a printed copy or a digital copy you can access
- The school report, predicted grades or achieved-grade evidence described above
- A pen and something to make notes on
- Examples of computing, coding, digital or creative work that you are proud of, if you have any (this is welcome but not compulsory)
TASTER DAYS AND NEXT STEPS
If your interview is successful, you may receive a conditional offer and will be invited to a compulsory taster day. The taster day gives you a realistic experience of learning in our Computing and Game Design classrooms. You may take part in a short practical activity, work with other applicants, meet tutors, and learn more about the standards expected on your course.
To successfully complete the taster day, you will be expected to:
- Take part in all activities, try your best and complete as much as you can.
- Listen to and follow the instructions, asking for help when you need it.
- Show a basic understanding of the activities and readiness for the course you have applied for.
- Behave appropriately and work respectfully with staff and other applicants.
You are not expected to know everything or complete every activity perfectly. We will consider your effort, participation, behavior, and willingness to learn.
Successful completion of the compulsory taster day forms part of the admissions process. If you cannot attend on the date offered, contact the Admissions team as early as possible so that they can advise you about the next available step.
Your admissions journey
- Submit your application.
- Complete your research task and prepare for your interview.
- Attend your interview.
- If successful, receive a conditional offer and details of the compulsory taster day.
- Attend and successfully complete the compulsory taster day.
- Provide evidence that you have met the relevant entry requirements.
- Subject to successful completion of the admissions stages, your place will be confirmed through enrolment.
ADDITONAL COURES REQUIREMNTS
Computing and Game Design courses involve practical projects as well as written work. You should be prepared to:
- Attend regularly, arrive on time and meet assessment deadlines
- Take part in individual and team activities, presentations and project work
- Use computers and online learning platforms safely, responsibly and professionally
- Think independently and respond positively to feedback
- Follow College expectations for respectful behavior and academic honesty
For T Level applicants
The T Level in Digital Software Development is a two-year Level 3 programme, equivalent in size to three A Levels. It combines college study with a compulsory industry placement of at least 315 hours. The course includes programming, software development, problem-solving, data, cybersecurity, digital environments, legislation, and ethics. You must be willing to take part in the placement and meet professional workplace expectations.
If you have a disability, medical condition, or other support needs, please tell the College during the application process. This allows the relevant team to discuss appropriate support or reasonable adjustments with you.
CONTACT DETAILS
Dr Nuur Hassan
Head of Curriculum- Computing & Game Design
01322 629 400