Page 22 - EngineerIT June July 2025

EDUCATION

Building the tech talent pipeline:

how BTEC is reframing ICT readiness

in South African schools

By the EDU360 Team, with insights from Justin Barry, Jacqui McKelvey, and Tonderai Nyandoro

outh Africa’s digital economy — not just test scores — which makes a measurable difference when they move
is growing fast, but the into tertiary education or the workplace.”
Seducation system hasn’t
kept pace. Too many students are What is BTEC and how does it work?
still pushed through traditional The Pearson BTEC (Business and Technology Education Council) International
academic routes that leave them Level 3 qualification is equivalent to a UK A-level or a South African NQF Level 4–5.
unprepared for the realities of today’s Unlike traditional academic options, BTEC uses project-based assessments to
ICT and engineering environments. simulate real-world challenges and problem-solving, particularly in digital fields.
The Pearson BTEC International
qualifications offer a more relevant, Over two years, students complete modules in:
skills-driven approach that helps • Programming
close this readiness gap. • Cybersecurity
• Data Modelling
One of the leading examples of • Emerging Technologies and Artificial Intelligence
BTEC implementation is at EDU360, • IT Systems Strategy and Management
a Johannesburg-based NPO and • Project Planning and Software Development
independent school known for
supporting diverse learners through Courses are taught in person at EDU360’s Rivonia campus, supported by
personalised academic pathways. SwitchedOn Education’s content platform. Students are assessed continuously
through coursework, not a final exam.
“This qualification is rigorous,
skills-based, and grounded in “Our students aren’t just studying IT. They’re building it,” says Tonderai Nyandoro,
practical learning,” says Justin Barry, BTEC Lead at EDU360. “They write code, design systems, evaluate user needs, and
co-founder of EDU360. “Students meet deadlines. It’s the hands-on exposure the industry is asking for — and it’s
graduate with real project portfolios happening right here, in school.”

22 | EngineerIT June/July 2025