As our world makes more and more digital advancements, it’s vital that every generation learns how to use technology safely, ethically and effectively.
It’s our mission at BCS to make IT good for society, which means ensuring children from all learning environments have access to the digital literacy skills they need to thrive. Which is why we now provide a range of home education resources and qualifications, so you can confidently teach your children computing and kickstart their digital journey. At present home education is not available internationally.
What do we offer?
We have a number of qualifications available, designed for children from age nine. We’ve collaborated with teachers on the material, making sure the programmes are fun, engaging, and effective. From courses designed for children with little or no digital literacy, to courses that cover more advanced and specialist skills, there’s something for every young mind to learn and enjoy.
Why choose one of our courses?
- You’ll be teaching your child how to use today’s technology safely and effectively — skills that will see them through to their adult life and future career
- You can tailor the courses to suit your child’s abilities and make sure they’re not only gaining new skills but building the foundation for their ongoing development
- After completing an exam, your child will gain an industry recognised Ofqual-regulated qualification, that proves their knowledge and digital competency
Register today
Enrol your child on one of our courses by completing this form. Or call our customer service team on +44 1793 417417 for more information. Please note that this offering is currently only available to those in the UK.
Qualifications available for home educators
ICDL Essentials
BCS Level 1 Award in IT User Skills (ICDL Essentials)
An excellent introduction into the world of technology. The units explore the basics of using a computer, email, and the internet, with an emphasis on how they’re used safely and productively.
ICDL Core & ICDL Extra
BCS Level 2 Certificates in IT User Skills (ICDL Core & ICDL Extra).
- ICDL Core focuses on improving understanding of computers
- ICDL Extra focuses on improving understanding of computer applications
ICDL Advanced
BCS Level 3 Certificate in IT User Skills (ICDL Advanced)
Once your child has good foundational digital knowledge, ICDL Advanced is the next step to help develop their existing skills to support future workplace demands.
Thinking as a Coder
BCS Level 2 Thinking as a Coder Award
An early introduction for young people into the essential computational thinking and coding skills that support the creation of simple computer programs.
Robotics
BCS Level 1 Robotics Award
A great skill and knowledge foundation for robotics, helping to develop 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
Covering the fundamentals of using digital devices and applications — specifically the main concepts and skills needed to use them securely, safely, and effectively.
FAQs
How much will it cost?
Prices vary depending on which qualification you choose, 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. But they’ll need to take the exam to complete the qualification and receive their certificate. All exam fees are also included in the qualification cost.
How do I book an exam as a home educator?
When your child’s ready to take their exam, give our customer service team a call and they’ll let you know the available exam dates. Exams are held remotely, either at your home, an assessment centre or another agreed venue, in the third week of every month. The deadline for making a booking is one week before the start of the exam week.
What if my child doesn't pass the exam?
Don’t worry! If your child doesn’t pass their exam first time, they’ll be able to take a resit which you can purchase by contacting customer service.
Do any of the courses match the computer science national curriculum?
Yes, Robotics and Thinking as a Coder.
Can I still access the course and exams if my child needs reasonable adjustments?
A reasonable adjustment is an action taken to help a student with a learning difficulty and/or disability take part in their education on the same basis as their peers.
If your child needs reasonable adjustments for their exam, please complete the form below and submit before booking an exam.
Can I cancel or change my exam booking?
You can, here’s our exam cancellation policy with more details.
