Professional IT Support: Key Stage 4
A workplace-ready pathway into IT support, networking, cloud and cybersecurity — built for students heading toward apprenticeships, further study or an early career in tech, with a
direct route into CompTIA and Cisco certification.
What Your Child Will Learn
- Build, troubleshoot and support real hardware and operating systems, and deliver professional help-desk support
- Understand how data moves across networks — from the 5-layer model to subnetting and cloud computing foundations
- Master the command line, file permissions and user/process management on both Windows and Linux
- Configure directory services, server roles, cloud infrastructure and disaster-recovery plans
- Apply cryptography, threat detection, network security controls and incident response
- Use Python and PowerShell scripting to automate real IT tasks, and produce professional digital documentation
Tools & Platforms
- Hardware & operating systems — Windows, Linux
- Networking — TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, subnetting, routing
- Cloud — SaaS / PaaS / IaaS, Infrastructure as Code
- Security — cryptography, firewalls, VPNs, incident response
- Scripting & automation — Bash, PowerShell, Python
Course Structure (5 Courses)
Course 1 — Technical Support Fundamentals
Hardware essentials, operating systems, internet and networking basics, binary and logical thinking, IT customer service, and using AI tools in IT support.
Course 2 — The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking
The 5-layer network model, core networking protocols, cloud computing foundations, troubleshooting tools,
and IPv4 vs IPv6.
Course 3 — Operating Systems and You: Becoming a Power User
Command-line mastery, file systems and permissions, user and process management, and remote administration.
Course 4 — System Administration & IT Infrastructure Services
Directory services, server roles and services, cloud and Infrastructure as Code, disaster recovery, and AI for
productivity.
Course 5 — IT Security: Defence Against the Digital Dark Arts
Cryptography fundamentals, the threat landscape, network security controls, and vulnerability and incident response.
Certification Pathway
This programme builds a strong foundation for further study towards recognised industry certifications,
including CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+ and Cisco CCNA. Certification requires separate preparation and successful completion of the relevant external examination.
National Curriculum Aligned
Mapped to the DfE National Curriculum in England for Computing at Key Stage 4 — developing capability in computer science, digital media and information technology, applying analytical and computational thinking, and understanding how changing technology affects online safety, privacy and identity.
Professional IT Support: Key Stage 4
A workplace-ready pathway into IT support, networking, cloud and cybersecurity — built for students heading toward apprenticeships, further study or an early career in tech, with a
direct route into CompTIA and Cisco certification.
| Suitable for Ages | 11 - 14 |
|---|---|
| Location | Broughton, Milton Keynes |
| Max Class Size | 6 to 8 students |
| Lesson Duration | 2 hours per session |
| Programme Length | 6 Terms |
Book a Trial Session
Parents are welcome to book a trial session so their child can experience the programme before enrolling. Please use the request form.
