Course overview

Games Design and Computing Certificate Level 1 City of Bristol College

This one-year course, studied across 9 hours per week at our College Green Centre, provides an introduction to Computing and Game Design to help you develop the skills you will need to progress onto our Level 2 courses, in particular Computing and Cybersecurity or Games Design, VFX and Animation.

There is also an option for apprenticeship or employment within the IT sector.

Computing & Game design areas that we deliver include:

– Introduction to Games Design and Development
– Modern Website Design and Development
– Cybersecurity
– Principles of Animation
– Personal Progression

In addition, you will also take English and Maths GCSE qualifications. Many of our students remain with us from Level 1, all the way to Level 3 and then apply to university or apprenticeships.

Dates and applications

Please hover over the ‘i’ button to find out more about course fees and applications.

Games Design and Computing Certificate Level 1 College Green Centre
Bristol
Course Code
LGF1570D01-1
Dates
08/09/2025 - 24/06/2026
Duration
1 years
Days
Date/Day(s) Being Finalised
Hours per week
14.13
Start Time
09:15
Location
College Green Centre
Fee
This course is still in its planning phase; course details - including fee information - are subject to change. In June, course details will be finalised and enrolment will open.
Apply
Course Code Dates Duration Days Hours per week Start Time Location Fee
LGF1570D01-1 08/09/2025 - 24/06/2026 1 years Date/Day(s) Being Finalised 14.13 09:15 College Green Centre
This course is still in its planning phase; course details - including fee information - are subject to change. In June, course details will be finalised and enrolment will open.
Apply

Additional information

Who is this course for?

If you’re a school leaver and interested in computing / Games Design, this course is an ideal stepping stone towards achieving your ambition.

This qualification is designed for you to have a taste of both Computing and Game Design and to then decide the pathway that you wish to follow.

What you'll learn

You will develop essential skills in both computing and game design.

The course is structured to give you hands-on experience across a range of disciplines, including:

– Computing and Cybersecurity
– Modern Website Design and Development
– Cybersecurity Basics
– Games Design, Animation, and VFX
– Introduction to Game Design and Development
– Principles of Animation
– Personal Progression and Development
– Practical projects to showcase your skills
– Research into game studios and IT industries
– Building personal and employability skills

In addition, you will work towards achieving English and Maths GCSE qualifications at the right level for you. This course is project-based, giving you the opportunity to complete practical assignments and create a personal portfolio of work to prepare for progression.

Course entry requirements

3 x GCSEs at grades 1 to 3 including Maths and English, or previous vocational qualification. However, if you don’t have any formal qualifications, don’t worry, simply let us know and we can assess you to ensure that you will be able to achieve well on the course.

We will invite you to a course information meeting event where you will receive information, advice and guidance about the course you have applied for. This will be an opportunity for you to gain valuable information about the course and give you the opportunity to tour our excellent facilities and ask any questions you may have.

You will be asked to provide a copy of your last school report and/or a reference from an employer or relevant professional other. This is to ensure we can support you to be able to achieve well on the course.

Talk to us today if you have any concerns about the application process; we are here to help take you to the next level.

How is the course delivered and assessed?

You will be assessed in a variety of ways to give you the best opportunity to demonstrate your skills throughout the year. There are no exams, only assignment-based projects.

You will also complete an English and Maths assessment/exam.

Future career and study opportunities

On successful completion of this Level 1 course, you will be well-prepared to progress to further study.

Typical progression routes include:

– Level 2 Diploma in Games Design, Animation, and VFX
– Level 2 course in Computing and Cybersecurity

Alternatively, you could progress on to an apprenticeship or employment.  Building on your skills at higher levels can eventually lead to: HNC/HND qualifications in Games Design, Animation, or VFX University study and careers in the digital and creative industries

Additional costs

To fully participate in this course, you will need to bring a USB headset. If you are on a limited income, you may be eligible for financial support through our Learner Support Funding Bursary. We are here to help ensure that cost is never a barrier to your learning.

  • Career Coach
    For guidance on which career path to take, to explore career options related to our courses, find out which careers are in demand, and then get the training you need.

What next?

Where to find us