Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd · RQF Level 3
FAQ Level 3 Diploma in ICT Professional Competence
You don’t just earn this. You learn to use it, one-to-one, on your own real work.
- LevelRQF Level 3
- Total credits72
- Units in this qualification39
Awarded by Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd · on the Ofqual register
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See how this course maps onto your role
Ten quick questions, one per Future Fluency, asked against this qualification rather than a generic one.
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What you’ll learn
What each unit actually teaches you to do
This Level 3 diploma develops the ICT professional competence required in the digital technology sector. It covers areas such as remote support, systems testing, and object-oriented programming. Successful candidates will enhance their effectiveness and professionalism in an ICT environment.
These are the units Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd registers against this qualification. It is a catalogue, not a syllabus. Which of them you take depends on the combination the qualification requires, and that is set by the awarding body rather than by us. Every unit here is regulated, and every one you earn is yours to keep.
Computer Games DevelopmentReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Know the different components that make up a computer game
- Understand the structure and operation of the computer games industry
- Develop a detailed computer game specification
- Implement a specific component of a computer game according to a given specification
Computer Games DevelopmentReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Understand computer game architecture and components, including hardware and software elements
- Understand the structure and dynamics of the computer games industry, including different roles and business models
- Evaluate existing computer games, analysing their strengths and weaknesses in terms of gameplay, design, and technology
- Develop a detailed computer game specification, outlining the game's features, mechanics, and target audience
- Implement elements of a computer game, using appropriate tools and techniques to create interactive components
Configuring Windows Server 2008 Active DirectoryReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Configure Domain Name System (DNS) for Active Directory, including creating and managing DNS zones and records.
- Configure the Active Directory infrastructure, including domain controllers, sites, and replication.
- Configure additional Active Directory server roles, such as DHCP server, file server, and print server.
- Create and maintain Active Directory objects, including users, groups, and computers.
- Maintain the Active Directory environment, including monitoring performance, troubleshooting issues, and performing backups and restores.
- Configure Active Directory Certificate Services, including issuing and managing digital certificates.
Configuring Windows Server 2008 Network InfrastructureReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Configure IP addressing and related services within a Windows Server 2008 network infrastructure
- Configure name resolution services within a Windows Server 2008 network infrastructure
- Configure network access controls and permissions within a Windows Server 2008 network infrastructure
- Configure file and print services within a Windows Server 2008 network infrastructure
- Monitor and manage a Windows Server 2008 network infrastructure, including performance and security
Creating an object oriented computer programReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Implement a software design using object oriented programming principles and techniques
- Refine an object oriented program to improve its overall quality and efficiency
- Test the operation of an object oriented driven program to ensure it functions correctly
- Document an object oriented driven program, including its design, functionality, and usage
Customer Care in ICTReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Provide customer care by establishing positive customer relationships through effective communication and empathy
- Provide customer care by establishing customer relationships, addressing their needs and resolving their issues in a professional and timely manner
Customer Care in ICTReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Understand how to provide ICT customer care by developing positive customer relationships.
- Provide effective ICT customer care by developing and maintaining positive customer relationships.
- Contribute to improving the delivery of ICT services based on customer feedback and observations.
Data ModellingReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the fundamental concepts underpinning logical data modelling.
- Use appropriate data modelling techniques to create clear and accurate logical data models.
- Use established data modelling techniques to refine existing logical data models, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
Data structures and algorithmsReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the structure of various data structures, including arrays, linked lists, and trees
- Understand the uses of various data structures in different programming scenarios
- Understand the algorithms associated with common data structure operations, such as searching and sorting
- Understand the operation of established algorithms, including searching, sorting, and graph traversal algorithms
- Select appropriate data structures for specified problems based on efficiency and suitability
- Select appropriate algorithms for specified problems based on efficiency and suitability
- Describe the data structures and associated algorithms in a non-executable program specification language, such as pseudocode
- Implement data structures and algorithms in an executable programming language, such as Python or Java
- Understand how strings are structured as sequences of characters
- Understand how strings are processed using various algorithms and techniques
Database SoftwareReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Plan, create and modify relational database tables to meet specified requirements
- Enter, edit and organise structured information within a database system effectively
- Use database software tools to create, edit and run data queries and produce reports based on the data
Develop own effectiveness and professionalismReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Develop own personal skills to enhance performance in the workplace
- Develop own professional skills to enhance career prospects
- Work effectively as a member of a team to achieve defined goals
- Implement agreed plans collaboratively within a team environment
- Understand the meaning of professional practice in the context of IT
- Understand the ethical considerations relevant to IT activities
- Understand the legislative environment impacting IT activities
- Improve organisational effectiveness through the application of acquired skills and knowledge
Fibre Telecommunications TechniquesReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the properties, structures and components included in typical fibre telecommunications networks.
- Understand safe working practices when working with optical fibre networks.
- Know the quality standards and documentation requirements when working on the optical fibre network.
- Prepare optical fibre components for installation in exchanges.
- Install optical fibre components in exchanges.
- Prepare optical fibre components for installation in customer premises.
- Install optical fibre components in customer premises.
- Build an external fibre network.
- Construct a fibre closure.
- Re-enter a fibre closure.
Health and Safety in ICTReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Comply with relevant Health and Safety procedures in an ICT environment.
ICT System OperationReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Know the relevant parts of the operating system.
- Operate specified parts of the system.
Investigating and Defining Customer Requirements for ICT SystemsReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Control the investigation of existing ICT systems and proposed ICT systems and processes
- Analyse information gathered to identify customer needs and constraints for ICT systems
Investigating and defining customer requirements for ICT systemsReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Investigate existing systems and processes to gather relevant information about their functionality and performance.
- Analyse gathered information to identify needs and constraints for ICT systems, considering factors such as user requirements, technical limitations, and business objectives.
MTA: Database Administration FundamentalsReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Understand core database concepts and terminology
- Create database objects, such as tables, views and stored procedures
- Manipulate data within a database using appropriate commands
- Understand data storage mechanisms and considerations
- Administer a database, including security and maintenance tasks
MTA: Microsoft .NET FundamentalsReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Understand fundamental .NET framework concepts
- Understand the use of namespaces and classes within the .NET framework
- Understand the process of .NET code compilation
- Understand the application of I/O classes in the .NET framework
- Understand .NET security principles and implementation
- Understand memory management techniques within the .NET framework
MTA: Security FundamentalsReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the different security layers within a computing environment
- Understand operating system security principles and practices
- Understand network security concepts and technologies
- Understand the purpose and function of various security software applications
MTA: Software Development FundamentalsReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Understand core programming concepts and principles
- Understand the principles of object-oriented programming
- Understand general software development methodologies and practices
- Understand the architecture and functionality of web applications
- Understand the architecture and functionality of desktop applications
- Understand the fundamental concepts of databases
MTA: Web Development FundamentalsReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the ability to program web applications effectively
- Demonstrate the ability to work with data and services in web applications
- Demonstrate the ability to troubleshoot and debug web applications
- Demonstrate the ability to work with client-side scripting languages
- Demonstrate the ability to configure and deploy web applications
MTA: Windows Development FundamentalsReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Understand Windows Programming Basics
- Create Windows Forms Applications
- Create Windows Services Applications
- Access Data in a Windows Forms Application
- Deploy a Windows Application
Remote Support for Products and ServicesReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the organisational requirements for customer care
- Understand the organisational requirements for the supported products and services
- Support products or services effectively
Security of ICT SystemsReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Know the common types of security threat to an organisation, its IT system and its data.
- Know relevant methods for protecting an organisation, its IT system and its data from security threats.
- Know relevant procedures for protecting an organisation, its IT system and its data from security threats.
- Apply security measures.
- Monitor security procedures.
Security of ICT SystemsReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the various security threats that can affect an IT system, their potential operational impact, and the methods available to combat them effectively.
- Maintain and continuously improve existing ICT security procedures to minimise risks and vulnerabilities.
- Implement established security procedures to protect ICT systems and data from unauthorised access and threats.
Security of ICT SystemsReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Know the particular threats to an IT system and its data, including malware, phishing, and physical security breaches
- Know specified methods and procedures for protecting an IT system and its data, such as firewalls, antivirus software, and access controls
- Comply with relevant security requirements to protect an IT system and its data, adhering to organisational policies and legal regulations
Software installation and upgradeReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the relevant parts of the software installation and upgrade process.
- Install or upgrade software according to specified procedures.
Software installation and upgradeReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the complete software installation and upgrade process, including planning, preparation, and post-installation checks.
- Carry out or effectively control a wide range of software installations and upgrades, ensuring minimal disruption and optimal performance.
System OperationReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Operate the system.
- Operate systems.
- Maintain system operating procedures.
- Implement system operating procedures.
Systems ArchitectureReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Understand how information is represented and processed within a computer system
- Use and develop the operating environment of current computer systems, including command line and graphical interfaces
- Understand the communication process in distributed operating systems and computer networks, including protocols and topologies
- Understand the principles of distributed applications and transaction processing in mainframe systems
Technical Advice and GuidanceReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Control the overall provision of technical advice and guidance within a defined area of responsibility.
- Provide reactive technical advice and guidance to customers, addressing a range of technical topics and issues as they arise.
- Provide proactive technical advice and guidance to customers, anticipating their needs and offering relevant solutions.
Technical advice and guidanceReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Provide technical advice and guidance to customers in a clear and understandable manner
- Provide reactive technical advice and guidance to customers on a range of topics, addressing their specific needs and queries
Technical advice and guidanceReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the context for providing technical advice and guidance to customers.
- Provide reactive technical advice and guidance to customers on a range of ICT-related topics.
- Provide proactive technical advice and guidance to customers regarding ICT issues.
Technical fault diagnosisReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the processes, methods, and information sources that are essential for effective fault diagnosis.
- Diagnose faults with a wide range of underlying causes, using appropriate diagnostic techniques.
- Select suitable remedies for non-routine faults, considering the specific circumstances and potential impact.
- Maintain accurate and comprehensive records of diagnosis processes and implemented remedies.
Technical fault diagnosisReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Describe the processes, methods and information that are used in the diagnostic process for technical faults.
- Apply diagnostic processes to identify faults with a known range of causes and assist in the diagnosis of other faults.
- Select appropriate fault remedies from given alternatives.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date diagnosis and remedy records.
Testing ICT SystemsReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Know technical information about a range of ICT products, testing procedures and associated activities
- Know the equipment to be used for testing and the reasons for the test
- Carry out routine testing of ICT systems
- Assist in other testing activities related to ICT systems
Testing ICT SystemsReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Know technical information about a wide range of ICT products, testing procedures and associated activities, equipment to be used and the reasons for the test, including specifications, functionalities, and limitations.
- Carry out testing of ICT systems and components, following established procedures and using appropriate equipment.
- Support others in the testing process by providing guidance, assistance, and feedback.
Windows Server 2008, Server AdministratorReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Plan for server deployment, considering hardware and software requirements
- Plan for server management, including user accounts and security
- Monitor and maintain servers to ensure optimal performance
- Plan application and data provisioning on servers
- Plan for business continuity and high availability of server services
Working with ICT hardware and equipmentReal unit · Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd
What you'll be able to do
- Plan ICT hardware and equipment work activities under direction
- Carry out a range of ICT hardware and equipment work activities under direction
- Plan a range of ICT hardware and equipment work activities under direction
- Carry out a range of ICT hardware and equipment work activities under direction
- Identify risks related to ICT hardware and equipment work activities
- Minimise risks related to ICT hardware and equipment work activities
The honest bit
You’ve started things before
Most courses were built for a room full of people who aren’t you. A cohort moves on whether or not your week allowed it, and by the third week the thing you’re behind on becomes the reason you stop opening it.
There’s no cohort here, and no timetable to fall behind. Before anything starts, Zavmo asks when you’re sharpest and how long you can realistically sit down for, then builds the sessions around those answers. A bad fortnight changes your pace. It doesn’t put you behind.
And you only pay once you start learning. Searching and planning are free, and you can cancel any time — so the cost of finding out is an afternoon, not a year.
Your passport
Every credit is a stamp you keep
Level 3 credits are regulated. They don’t vanish when a subscription ends or a website closes. They travel to any employer, and Zavmo keeps the map of what you’ve earned and what’s next.
Each stamp is a real unit registered against this qualification.
Who’d teach you this

The Evidence Evaluator
Assessor
Helps you show what you can actually do, gathering the evidence that proves it as you learn.
Meet all twelve tutorsWhere this connects
Where these credits take you
A qualification is never a dead end here. See the jobs its credits open, the national occupational standards its units map to, and the future skills they quietly build.
- Administer database systems
- Assist in Security Testing Under Supervision Effectively
- Contribute to information security intrusion detection and analysis activities
- Create and implement systems architecture models
- Implement security procedures for digital systems
- Provide technical advice and guidance for scientific or technical activities
Where this can lead
Associate Database Administrator
This Associate role is just the beginning of what could be a long, rewarding career in technical roles. We're investing in you, and we expect you to invest in yourself. The opportunities are vast, and we're excited to see where you take it.
See the whole journey →Showing 6 roles, drawn from 17 job records mapped to this qualification.
Skills it covers
What the job actually needs. These are the standards the units are built against, in the words employers and awarding bodies already use for the work itself.
How you’ll actually learn this
One-to-one, on your own real work
A qualification is usually something done to you: sit the class, sit the exam, hope it sticks. Here it’s the opposite. You learn it one-to-one with a companion, on your own real work, and you keep going until you can use it, not just recall it.
Applied to your work in any of these jobs
Learners will gain an understanding of computer game components and the industry context. The unit covers developing detailed game specifications and implementing specific game components in line with those specifications.
- Remember
- Understand
- Apply
- Analyse
- Evaluate
- Create
Built for FAQ Level 3 Diploma in ICT Professional Competence
29 units in this credential, in the order it lists them, awarded by Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd.
- Computer Games Development
- Configuring Windows Server 2008 Active Directory
- Configuring Windows Server 2008 Network Infrastructure
- Creating an object oriented computer program
- Customer Care in ICT
- Data Modelling
and 23 more in the full unit list below.
One to one, not one to many
No two people run this the same way
A course is written once and handed to everyone. This is assembled around you, and keeps changing as it learns you. Five things it reads, and what each one changes.
- Your actual work Every unit is taught against a live piece of your own work, not a worked example from a textbook.
- What you already know The first conversation finds your starting point, so you skip what you can already do and spend the time on what you cannot.
- The conditions you learn under Not a learning-styles quiz. The evidence does not support those. The dimensions the research does back, read once and used to shape the plan.
- How far you got last time It picks up mid-thought. The tutor knows what you said, what you struggled with, and what it asked you to try.
- Which tutor suits the moment Twelve of them, each for a different kind of thinking. The one who walks you through a first idea is not the one who stress-tests it.
See how you learn, free. Eight questions, no sign-up. A directional taster; the diagnostic inside Zavmo goes deeper and keeps adapting.
Why it sticks
Most courses stop at remembering
There’s a well-known ladder of how deeply you learn something, called Bloom’s Taxonomy. Most courses get you up the first two rungs: you remember some facts, you pass a test, you forget it. Real skill lives at the top. Judging, deciding, creating. And this isn’t a generic ladder: every rung has a named Zavmo tutor who walks you up it.
- 6CreateThe Creative Catalyst
- 5EvaluateThe Evidence Evaluator
- 4AnalyseThe Analyst
- 3ApplyThe Coach
- 2UnderstandThe Connector
- 1RememberThe Builder
Where most courses leave you Where Zavmo takes you
The value
Why the companion is worth £70 a month
You’re not paying for the units. They’re regulated, and the same wherever you earn them. You’re paying for the one thing that decides whether you actually get there: a companion that makes them stick, on your real work.
That is one-to-one on this qualification, every day, on the work you already do, for £70 a month. Your first module is free, so you can see the teaching before you pay for any of it. Billed monthly, cancel any time and billing stops.
Earned on your own work, taught to the top.
Everything you just read, learned one-to-one on the job you already do. Your first module is free, so you can see the teaching before you pay for any of it.
Build my plan, freeNo card. See how this qualification maps onto your role and meet the tutors who’d teach it, free. The learning begins when you subscribe. It’s £70 a month, billed monthly. Cancel any time and billing stops.