Y6871 - Essential Digital Skills Entry 3 Qualification (Gateway)

Header
Start Date: 16/03/2026      End Date: 13/07/2026        Start Time: 09:30      End Time: 12:30        Hours per Week: 3.00      No of Weeks: 15
Fees:      £0.00 (tuition)     £531.00 (overseas)     £0.00 (concessionary)
Tutor: Vicki Parrott        No of Places: 2
Idea Store Chrisp Street

Course Overview

Course Overview
This course includes a practical assessment and leads to an Entry Level 3 qualification from Gateway Qualifications. It supports progression into work, volunteering or further study. 

What will you learn and be able to do?

What will you learn and be able to do?
* Create and edit a Word document using text formatting tools.
* Use email to send, receive and reply to messages with attachments.
* Connect to Wi-Fi and use internet browsers to search safely and efficiently.
* Complete online forms and registrations (e.g. NHS, council services, job search).
* Use strong passwords and understand basic online security.
* Recognise common online risks such as scams or phishing emails.
* Organise files in folders and manage storage on a digital device.
* Use settings on a device to personalise access (e.g. language, accessibility, privacy).
* Communicate using online tools (e.g. video calls, messaging, shared docs).
* Use simple AI tools or apps to help with writing, planning or finding answers.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements
You should already feel confident using a computer and/or have completed an Entry 2 Digital Skills course. You must be able to read and follow instructions in English at Entry 3 or above.
Prosp User 8

Equipment required

Equipment required
Some sessions may take place online. You will be notified in advance if a session is due to take place online. You may join these sessions using any personal device or computer - wifi is also available in the Idea Stores. If you do not have a device available, there may be support available for a loan device.
Prosp User 9

How will you know you are making progress?

How will you know you are making progress?
At the start of the course, your tutor will talk with you about which of your digital skills you need to practise most and help you create an individual learning plan. Throughout the course, you will have a tutorial meeting to discuss your strengths, areas for improvement, and any problems you may have. You will keep a folder with your work, which will help you review your learning outside of class. Your tutor will give you regular feedback on your class work and homework to help you improve. To make progress, you need to attend all your classes and do work outside of class.
Prosp User 12
You will undertake the Gateway Essential Digital Skills Qualification at Entry 3.

The qualification covers five skill areas:

Using devices and handling information
Creating and editing
Communicating
Transacting
Being safe and responsible online.
The content of the qualifications is based on the National standards for essential digital skills April 2019 (reference: DfE-00082-2019)

You will be given the opportunity to resit the exam once.
Prosp User 11

Progress opportunities - your next steps

Progress opportunities - your next steps
• Essential Digital Skills Level 1 (Gateway Qualification)
• Digital Skills for Work: Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook (Level 1)
• Employability or vocational courses with digital requirements
• Level 1 ESOL, or Functional Skills English or Maths
Prosp User 10

Other info

Other info
One of our aims is to help you make progress in work or future studies. We also want to help you participate in your communities and become an active citizen. In our classes, you will develop important skills that employers value and that will help you in everyday life. Here’s what you will learn:

Communication Skills: You will learn to speak and write more clearly and confidently. This includes practising conversations for work, writing emails, and filling out forms.

Decision-Making: You will learn how to make good choices by evaluating different options and thinking critically about situations.

Teamwork: You will learn how to work well with others.

Problem-Solving: You will develop the ability to identify problems and find effective solutions, useful in both work and daily life.

Time Management: You will practice managing your time effectively, including setting goals and meeting deadlines.

By improving these skills, you will increase your chances of finding a job, advancing in your career, and becoming an active member of your community.
Prosp User 13

Extra Support

Extra Support
We can help you if you tell us you have a learning difficulty, disability or other support needs. Please tell us when you enrol or in your first class.
Prosp User 14