HTQ Case Studies - Computing

Abdallah Ahmed -BSc in Digital Technologies

My journey from student to Computing Lecturer at Bedford College is proof of how far our Higher Skills pathway can take you. I began with a BTEC Level 3 in Computing and was so inspired by the supportive, forward-thinking environment here that I continued straight through Level 4, Level 5 and ultimately completed my BSc in Digital Technologies in June 2025. Bedford College didn’t just give me qualifications—it opened doors. A guest lecture led to my first role at JamCoding as a Code Coach, where I discovered a passion for teaching, and my top-up year helped me secure a position at PMC as an IT Support Analyst, giving me real industry experience that shaped my confidence and career direction.

Through supporting classmates and receiving consistent praise from learners, parents and colleagues, I realised I could make a genuine difference. I wanted students to have a relatable role model—someone who had recently been in their position and understood both the challenges and opportunities of the digital world. In July 2025, just one month after finishing my degree, I returned to Bedford College as a Computing Lecturer. Today, I’m proud to support learners in developing not only their technical skills but also their personal growth and future career pathways. My journey shows how the right environment, the right guidance, and the right opportunities can turn ambition into a meaningful career, which is exactly what Bedford College did for me!

Simran Sharma - Cyber Security Computing HTQ

“I began my journey with Level 2 Computing at Bedford College, where I was able to confirm my passion for Computing. As I progressed, I moved on to Level 3, which is equivalent to A-Levels, and that experience only strengthened my desire to pursue a career in Computing. Throughout my studies, I was exposed to a wide range of units that allowed me to explore different areas of Computing, such as Database Design & Development, Networking, Security, and Software Development Lifecycles.

After completing Level 3, I decided to pursue the Level 4 and 5 Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs), known as HNC and HND. These qualifications provided a more structured, hands-on approach to learning, which suited my career aspirations. For example, in Database Design & Development, I gained practical skills in designing and implementing databases, while Networking taught me how to build and manage networks. The Security unit helped me understand the importance of cybersecurity in today’s tech landscape, and it sparked my interest in specialising in Cybersecurity.

The Software Development Lifecycles unit introduced me to the process of developing software from start to finish, giving me a deeper understanding of how Computing projects are structured and managed.

In addition to these technical courses, I also studied Professional Practice and Planning a Computing Project. These units allowed me to develop key skills in project management and professional conduct, preparing me for real-world challenges in the Computing industry. The practical assignments and real-world applications throughout my HNC and HND were incredibly valuable, as they enabled me to apply what I learned to actual industry scenarios.

Now, I’m completing the Level 6 Top-Up degree in Cybersecurity and Networking, which ties together everything I’ve learned throughout my journey. The Level 6 Top-Up year is the perfect way to finalise my qualifications, allowing me to build on the knowledge and skills I’ve gained from Levels 2, 3, 4, and 5.

This pathway has been a great alternative to a traditional university degree, as it’s not only more affordable but also more focused on providing practical, industry-relevant skills. The wide variety of units I’ve studied has allowed me to gain a well-rounded skill set, and I feel confident in my ability to succeed in the Computing world.”

Jam Coding

Find out more about Computing HTQs at The Bedford College Group, and how we work with employers and students to everyone’s benefit from the HTQ website.