Level 1 Extended Certificate · Full-Time · 1 year full-time
Your introduction to the digital, IT and creative media side of things. No previous knowledge needed. You'll try imaging software, website design, digital graphics, moving image, cybersecurity and IT support fundamentals, all through practical projects. By the end of the year you'll have a portfolio, 30 hours of work experience, and a much clearer idea of whether you're heading toward creative media or IT at Level 2.
Your gateway into Level 2 Digital, Creative or IT. No previous experience required.
This is a 7-unit introduction across the digital, IT and creative media world. You’ll try imaging software, website design, IT support fundamentals, digital graphics, cybersecurity and moving image, before finishing on a creative industries project of your own. Everything runs through practical projects, and assessment is by portfolio, not exams.
You’ll also complete 30 hours of work experience. Some students find their direction is clearly creative media (games, animation, film). Others realise they’re more into IT (networks, support, cyber). Either way, by the end of the year you’ll have a portfolio, a clearer sense of your direction, and the qualification to move up to Level 2.
Build a portfolio of evidence showcasing your skills and achievements throughout the course.
Graphic and multimedia designers use illustrative, sound, visual and multimedia techniques to convey a message for information, entertainment, advertising, promotion or publicity purposes, and create special visual effects, 3D models […]
Web design professionals design, develop and maintain websites and web and mobile applications to meet a client’s specified requirements.
IT engineers install, maintain and repair the physical components of computer systems and equipment.
You'll be based in our upgraded computer labs, kitted out for both the practical creative work and the IT side of the course.
Modern high-tech computer labs
recently upgraded, with gaming chairs, LED lighting, and industry-standard software.
State-of-the-Art Equipment
the wider Digital Technologies studios were recently upgraded through a £1.5 million investment from Sheffield City Region.
30-hour work experience placement
built into the year.
Student Voice
Studying here has been amazing. We get to use Adobe software, I’ve improved my time management and organisational skills, made new friends, worked on fun projects, and now I’m thinking about either getting an apprenticeship or going to uni.
These are nationally recognised qualifications with real academic weight. Your child will develop practical skills and knowledge that employers and universities genuinely value.
See the full unit listIf your child has additional learning needs, our support team works with them from day one. Adjustments are put in place early so they can get the most out of their course.
About learning supportIf your child needs to resit GCSE English or Maths, it's built into the timetable — not bolted on as an extra. They'll get structured support alongside their main course.
About student supportLevel
Level 1
Duration
1 year full-time
Study Mode
Full-Time
Entry
No formal qualifications needed
Assessment
Portfolio
Age
16+
Progression Routes
Route A: L1 GATEWAY → L2 Diploma in Digital and Creative Industries OR L2 Diploma ICT Systems and Principles → L3 (Creative Media, NEXTGEN, or ICT) → University, apprenticeship, or industry
Applications for September 2026 are open. Apply online in 10 minutes.
Questions? Call free 0800 358 7575 or email dcinfocentre@don.ac.uk