Games Design

== Games Design as a Vocational Course ==
Home-ed students can study Games Design as a vocational IT / Media subject through a number of routes, but any BTEC or National Diploma must be studies through an authorised learning provider due to the coursework aspect. Before starting a vocational course, check that the learning provider is already linked with an exam centre and how coursework and exams are managed.
Whilst IGCSE & GCSE courses are a more affordable option, vocational courses can provide an alternative route for those that find exams challenging or prefer coursework. From 2023, both Pearson BTECs and Cambridge Nationals have changed to a minimum of 40% exam, so there will be an exam element to most courses.
== What is Games Design? ==
Games Design is a hybrid course that generally includes a combination of media studies, graphic design, and programming. Level 1 & 2 courses have been developed over the past few years to create a path to university and employment as Games Design & Development degrees have been available for much longer.
There are two main vocational courses available: OCR Cambridge iMedia, which includes an optional unit for Games Design combined with two mandatory units from Media & Design aimed at ages 14 - 16 and Pearson BTEC L2 Technicals in Digital Games Production which is a GCSE equivalent course aimed at 16+ 
Exam code for Cambridge Nationals: (various - please speak to your learning provider)
Exam code for NTEC L2 Technical: (various - please speak to your learning provider)
It is important that your child understands that Games Design courses at any level involve minimal actual playing of games and are much closer linked to "Computer Science with additional Art".
== Do you need a this to study Games Design at College or University? ==
Most colleges and universities won't list this as a required subject as the route into Games Design is often varied. Instead, these are a route for those who want to create a portfolio or sit a formal qualification with fewer academic exams.
== Resources for Games Design Vocational Courses ==
TeachAllAboutIt offer KS3, IGCSE, GCSE, & A Level distance learning & tutored courses in Computer Science, ICT, & Media, including Cambridge National iMedia Games Design from September 2022. Holly Billinghurst is an established tutor & home educator who also writes for Cambridge Press and BBC Bitesize. A free introduction course is available on their website.
Category:Information Technology and Computing