Page 23 - EngineerIT June July 2025

EDUCATION

Feeding the ICT skills pipeline Building the pipeline
The local ICT sector continues to report a shortage of job-ready talent in Learners typically enter BTEC Level 3
critical areas like cybersecurity, software development, data analytics, and AI. after completing Grade Level 2 or a
The 2023 JCSE-IITPSA ICT Skills Survey highlighted an increasing gap between Pearson BTEC International Level 2 in
academic qualifications and the digital workplace's needs. IT, which is also offered at EDU360.
The Level 2 qualification provides a
BTEC helps close this gap by focusing on applied competence. foundation in ICT principles and is
equivalent to two GCSEs or South African
“We’ve had conversations with industry professionals and hiring teams. Their Grade 10. It sets the stage for deeper
message is consistent: they need people who can do the job, not just talk learning in the more advanced Level 3
about it,” says Jacqui McKelvey, EDU360’s principal. “BTEC trains students in track.
the tools, workflows, and thinking that real companies use.”
“We’ve created a progression pathway
The qualification is internationally recognised and accepted by many that starts with digital literacy and
universities in over 50 countries, including several South African institutions. ends with industry-aligned readiness,”
BTEC graduates can pursue higher education, enter the workforce, or start says Barry. “Whether a student is
freelancing with a solid portfolio already in hand. heading to university or straight into
work, BTEC helps them get there with
Who benefits from the BTEC model? purpose and clarity.”
Although EDU360 is known for supporting neurodivergent and SEN+D
(Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) students, the BTEC programme A replicable model for SA education
is designed for anyone who learns best through structured, practical In a country facing youth unemployment
engagement, especially those who find traditional academic models limiting. and growing skills mismatches,
alternative qualifications like BTEC
“You don’t need to have a diagnosis to benefit from BTEC,” says Nyandoro. offer more than just hope — they offer
“You just need to prefer learning by doing and want to leave school with skills evidence. EDU360’s model shows that it’s
that matter.” possible to deliver industry-relevant ICT
education within the school system.
EDU360 has seen students thrive after switching to BTEC. Some who had
previously disengaged from academics are now excelling — showing up “We’ve never believed in one-size-fits-
early, taking initiative, and producing high-quality work. all education,” says McKelvey. “BTEC isn’t
a fallback option. It’s a forward-thinking
“One of our learners built an app prototype based on a childhood idea. qualification that gives learners the
Another refined cybersecurity protocol beyond the brief. They’re not just edge — and our workforce the talent it
involved — they’re thriving,” says Nyandoro. needs.”

To learn more or visit EDU360’s BTEC
programme in action, head to
www.edu360foundation.org

For media queries or enrolment
information, contact:
hello@edu360school.com

23 | EngineerIT June/July 2025