IT – Data Analytics

Cambridge Advanced National (AAQ)

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Year 1 Leading to an AS equivalent qualification (Certificate)

Unit F200: Fundamentals of Data Analytics (Examined Unit – sat in January of Year 1)

This unit gives students a solid foundation in the world of data – an area that's increasingly shaping our everyday lives, from online shopping to social media and beyond.

Students will explore:

What data is and why it matters – including how organisations use data to make decisions and improve services.
How data is collected, stored and analysed – including real-world methods like surveys, social media tracking, and more.
The data journey – from gathering and managing data to presenting it clearly using charts, dashboards and infographics.
Staying safe and legal – understanding important data protection laws and how data is kept secure across systems.
Careers in data – discovering job roles such as Data Analyst or AI Scientist, and the key skills employers look for, like problem-solving and teamwork.

Assessment is via a 1 hour 15 minute written exam, with a mix of multiple-choice, short answer, and extended response questions.

Unit F202: Spreadsheet Data Modelling (NEA – submitted in June of Year 1)

In this practical unit, students become spreadsheet experts – developing real-world skills in data handling, analysis, and problem-solving.

Students learn how to:

Plan and design a spreadsheet that solves a specific problem or meets a client’s needs.
Create smart, interactive models using formulas, functions, charts and validation tools.
Test their spreadsheet to make sure it works reliably and accurately.

Year 2 Leading to an Extended Certificate (equivalent of an A Level)

Unit F204: Data and the Internet of Everything (IoE) (NEA – submitted in February of Year 2)

This unit explores how everyday objects – from fitness watches to smart fridges – are connected through the Internet of Everything (IoE), creating and sharing data that improves our lives and powers smart technologies.

Students will:

Discover the IoE ecosystem – including devices, sensors, and networks.
Explore how data is collected and transmitted between connected devices.
Design a smart solution for a real-world scenario.

Unit F201: Big Data and Machine Learning (Examined Unit – sat in January of Year 2)

This unit takes students into the world of big data and explores how machine learning and AI can turn that data into powerful insights.

Students will learn about:

What big data is, where it comes from, and why it's valuable.
The challenges of managing big data – from storage to security.
How machine learning and AI work, and how they’re used in real-world scenarios.
Legal and ethical issues, including fairness, bias and sustainability.

Assessment is via a 1 hour 30 minute written exam, with short answer and extended response questions.

Unit F206: Data and Digital Marketing (NEA – submitted in June of Year 2)

In this creative and practical unit, students explore how data is used to plan and power digital marketing campaigns.

Students will:

Explore modern digital marketing tools – like email, social media, and websites.
Use data to identify audiences and measure success.
Plan and create digital content – from visuals to written posts.

Curriculum

This course introduces students to the essential skills and techniques used in data analytics, focusing on collecting, processing, and interpreting data to support informed decision-making. Students will develop practical experience with spreadsheets and data visualisation tools, gaining insight into how data drives business and organisational strategies.

The curriculum covers key topics such as data manipulation, data quality, statistical analysis, and ethical considerations surrounding data use. Through real-world case studies and projects, students learn to analyse complex datasets, identify trends, and present findings clearly and accurately.

Progression / Careers

By completing this course, students will be well-prepared for further study or careers in fields like business intelligence, marketing analytics, and IT. The skills gained provide a strong foundation in data literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving that are highly valued in today’s data-driven world.

Entry Requirements

5 x GCSE at Grades 5,5,4,4,4

Including Grade 4 in both English and Maths

Assessment

The Exam Board is Cambridge OCR

Year 1 Certificate

F200: Fundamentals of Data Analytics [External examination]

F202: Spreadsheet data modelling [Non-examination assessment]

Year 2 Extended Certificate

F201 Big data and machine learning [External examination]

F204: Data and the Internet of Everything (IoE) [Non-examination assessment]

F206: Data and digital marketing [Non-examination assessment]

Opportunities for work related activities

CyberFirst Lectures. Unlock Cyber Careers visit. Visiting speakers.