What is the course about?
Please note: this course is not available to learners in many areas of England with devolved adult skills funding. Please view the Level 2 Distance Learning page for details on eligibility
This qualification has a duration of 14 weeks and is designed for learners who want to gain knowledge of coding
The qualification may also support progression into further study in coding or other topics within the digital sector.This qualification is designed for learners who are looking to gain an introduction to coding. It will support the learner to progress into further study and support those interested in progressing to employment in a coding or IT related role. Learners may find it helpful if they’ve already achieved a Level 1 Digital Skills or Information Technology related qualification.
To be awarded the Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Coding, learners must successfully complete 5 mandatory units:
•Understand the principles of coding
•Understand terminology used in coding
•Understand coding design principles
•Understand the processes and practice of coding
•Understand the important of communication and project management in coding
You will be provided with online learning materials which covers all aspects of your course. You will be required to complete assessments for each of the units within the course and submit these by the deadline dates provided at induction. You will be allocated an assessor at the start of your course and they will support you to ensure you have a successful outcome. IT skills will be developed throughout your course and basic English skills will be assessed and discussed on an ongoing basis.
The course is free if you meet the eligibility criteria. You must be a UK resident or have lived in the UK for 3 years or more and be aged 19 or older on 31 August 2025. You will need internet access so that you can respond to email and a digital device that will enable you to type your answers into a web-based platform.
By the end of the course, learners should be able to understand:
The principles of coding
The stages of the software development cycle
Coding terminology and the key principles of writing code
Different coding types
best practices in coding
methods of testing and the DevOps process
effective communication and project management in coding
Learners who achieve this qualification could progress to:
Level 3 Certificate in Coding Practices
Level 3 Certificate or Diploma in IT User Skills
Level 3 Certificate in Programming
