We’re providing digital learning at home. As the world becomes more digital, it’s vital that we educate children about what it means to be digitally literate and how to operate technology safely, so that they can thrive as adults and be fully prepared for the workplace of the future.
At BCS, it’s our mission to make IT good for society and we believe all children, irrespective of their learning environment, should be afforded equal opportunities. To support this, BCS are pleased to now offer a range of qualifications to help home educators confidently deliver digital literacy lessons to children.
Digital Resources & Courses for Home Educated Children
We have a range of cost-effective courses and teaching resources for home education, aimed at children between the ages of 9 through to 16. Simply select the course that is most appropriate for your child based on whether they have little or no digital skills, or if they require more advanced or specialist skills, such as an introduction to coding or hands-on learning the fundaments with programming in our robotics qualification.
To ensure we’re delivering the best outcomes for all students, we’ve collaborated with teachers on the course material and how to make the programmes fun, engaging and effective.
Why home educated children should take our digital skills qualifications
- Your child will gain new skills and build their confidence in the digital age
- Your child will gain an internationally recognised and respected Ofqual-regulated qualification, that proves their knowledge and digital competency
- Your child will learn skills that will see them through to their adult life and career
Register your interest
Enrol your learner on one of our courses by completing this form or alternatively, you can call our helpful Customer Service team on +44 1793 417417.
Digital Qualifications available for home educators
ICDL Essentials
BCS Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ICDL Essentials) - an excellent introduction to the world of technology. The units cover getting started on a computer, email and the internet, with a particular focus on how they are used safely and productively.
ICDL Core & ICDL Extra
BCS Level 2 Certificates in IT User Skills (ICDL Core & ICDL Extra).
- ICDL Core improves learners' understanding of computers.
- ICDL Extra improves learners’ understanding of computer applications.
ICDL Advanced
BCS Level 3 Certificate in IT User Skills (ICDL Advanced) - ICDL Advanced allows learners to develop their existing skills and expertise to support workplace demands.
Thinking as a Coder
BCS Level 2 Thinking as a Coder Award - Developed to engage and introduce young people to tech at an earlier stage of education. The qualification includes essential computational thinking and coding skills that support the creation of simple computer programs.
Robotics
BCS Level 1 Robotics Award – Students will gain foundational skills and knowledge in robotics and the confidence in building and programming a robot using widely available robotics kits and visual programming language.
Smart Digital
BCS Level 1 Smart Digital Award in e-Safety – Students will cover the main concepts and skills needed to use devices and applications securely, safely, and effectively.
FAQs for Home Educators
How much will it cost?
Prices vary depending on which qualification your learner embarks on, find the full list of prices including exam invigilation fees here.
Does my child have to take the exam to access the course material?
No, your learner does not have to take the exam to access the course material, but they will need to take the exam to complete the qualification and receive their certificate. All examination fees are also included in the qualification cost.
What if my child doesn't pass the exam?
If your learner does not pass their exam, they will be able to take a re-sit. This can be purchased and booked with Customer Service.
How do I book an exam as a home educator?
When your learner’s ready to take their exam, give our Customer Service team a call and they’ll offer you available dates for booking the exam. Exams are held remotely in the third week of every month. The deadline for making a booking is one week prior to the start of the exam week.
Does this course match the computer science national curriculum?
Once your child is ready to take their exam, call our helpful Customer Service. They will offer you a range of time and dates available. Please note that examinations are held remotely in the third week of each month. The deadline for booking is one week prior to the examination weeks commencement.
Can I still access the course and exams if my child needs reasonable adjustments?
If your learner requires reasonable adjustments for their exam, please complete the form below and submit it before booking their exam.
