NPA Computing Technologies includes two main units: Computing Foundations, where you learn the basics, and Computing Project, where you get to put your skills into practice. You can also choose exciting topics like Esports, Game Development, AI, or Emerging Digital Technologies.
You’ll work on real projects, build useful skills like problem-solving and teamwork, and get ready for further study or a future job in tech.
Complete both mandatory units to achieve the full qualification.
Computing Foundations helps you learn the basics of how computers work. You’ll explore topics like networking, hardware, software, and how data is stored, used, and shared. It’s a great starting point for building towards a career in technology.
Work as part of a team to put your computing skills into action. Whether you’re developing a website, creating a piece of software, or exploring a digital solution, this project helps you apply what you’ve learned in a real and practical way.
Complete two of the following optional units to achieve the full qualification.
Discover how machines can think and learn. You’ll explore AI systems, decision-making, and ethical challenges in real-world examples.
Learn how games are planned, designed, and built. You’ll create characters, levels, and mechanics using real development tools.
Explore the latest digital trends like wearable tech, VR, and smart devices. Investigate how they impact society and shape the future.
Improve your skills through competitive gaming. Work as a team, analyse tactics, and develop communication and decision-making in matches.
The Computing Foundations unit is assessed through a short multiple-choice test completed in class. It checks how well you understand the key topics you’ve learned.
In the Computing Project, you’ll work as part of a team to plan and create something together. The most important part of this project is how well your group works as a team — teamwork matters more than the final result. It’s a chance to show how you solve problems, share ideas, and support each other.
To complete the full qualification, you must also complete two optional units. These will be assessed by a short multiple-choice test, a small class project, or both — depending on the unit.
If you’ve already completed Computer Games Development as part of the NPA Games Development course, or Game Performance as part of the NPA Esports course (at Level 4), you might already have one or even both optional units finished.
Optional units are assessed using either multiple choice tests and/or projects completed in class. For more details see each specific unit.
