Information Communication Technician with Cloud and Security
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Funding band: £15,000
Duration: 16 months
Delivery Style: 1:1 In person and online, Live virtual classrooms, 247 on demand learning resources
Apprenticeship training is fully funded. Apprentices are not required to pay.
Employers, please visit our Funding, Grants & Payments section.
Searching for an Information Communication Technician apprenticeship that gives you more?
Build expertise in network configuration, cloud services, cybersecurity, and IT support with the Information Communication Technician apprenticeship. Cover DNS, firewalls, virtualisation, endpoint management, and troubleshooting. This funded Level 3 programme equips learners with real-world digital infrastructure skills—ideal for employers seeking tech talent and apprentices launching secure, connected careers.
Choose your pathway
As a support technician
- Installing and configuring suitable software and hardware, such as mobile apps, printers, projectors, scanners, cameras, and network services, as needed.
- Prioritising the resolution of IT issues, including external customer inquiries and user queries, in alignment with client service level agreements.
- Applying the principles of security when assigning security access needs and permissions to stakeholders, escalating as needed for password resets, for example.
- Providing valuable support in the implementation of basic software upgrades, digital systems, and applications, contributing to optimal performance and seamless integration.
As a Digital Communications Technician
- Understand the purpose of digital communication technologies.
- Complete cabling tasks, such as coaxial, copper, or fibre installations, adhering to professional standards, whether conducted on-site or remotely.
- Proficiently install, commission, and configure computer or telecoms hardware, including modern digital communications technologies, to enable efficient and reliable communication systems.
- Conducting routine maintenance and upkeep for efficient operation across computer systems and telecommunications networks, including telecoms network equipment
- Research solutions to maintain network communication architectures.
- Continuously monitor and meticulously report on the performance of telecommunications or communications systems.
As a Network Technician
- Adeptly utilising a wide range of cabling or connectors, in strict adherence to technical requirements. This includes the proficient handling of coaxial, copper, fibre, and remote cabling, ensuring optimal connectivity and seamless operations.
- Organising, managing, and maintaining mobile device hardware within a network infrastructure. Ensuring the smooth operation and efficient utilisation of mobile device hardware on a network.
- Delivering network tasks with a primary focus on building and maintaining a secure system to effectively mitigate and safeguard against various security threats.
- Installing required software as well as real or virtual hardware, such as network devices, switches, and routers, as needed.
Live virtual masterclasses included in this apprentice:
First, choose your pathway…
With the help of their tutor, the apprentice will choose a speciality pathway, however, this must align with their job role.
Network Technician or Support Technician or Digital Communications Technician
Based on this, the apprentice will create a portfolio of work and develop varied knowledge
No matter which pathway you choose, all apprentices will attend the following.
Duration 4 Days
- Workplace Essentials: Safeguarding & Prevent Duty, Health, Safety & Wellbeing, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion, British Values, Business Etiquette, Professionalism, Team Roles & Motivation
- Communication & Skills Development: Functional skills, mental health & resilience, networking, digital adoption
- Digital Careers: Industry roles, future-proofing careers, behaviours & standards expected
- Web & Internet Technologies: Modern web technologies, social networking, internet infrastructure, DNS, emails, cloud computing
- Programming & Databases: Intro to programming languages (C, Java, Python, etc.), data modelling, SQL
- AI & Cybersecurity: Emerging AI tools, cybersecurity, data protection, ethical & legal issue
Duration 4 Days
- Understanding cloud concepts
- Planning and designing a cloud environment
- Managing cloud storage managing cloud migrations and troubleshooting cloud deployments
- Managing cloud security
- Implementing high availability and disaster recovery in the cloud
- Managing networks in the cloud
- Managing cloud automation and orchestration
- Securing and troubleshooting networks in the cloud
Duration 5 Days
- Installing & configuring hardware components
- Network topologies & types
- Understanding basic wired networks
- Internet Connection
- Cable types & their connectors
- RAM and Storage Devices
- Installing Motherboards and CPU’s
- Client-side virtualisation
- Troubleshooting hardware & software issues
Duration 5 Days
- Microsoft Windows 11 Operating Systems
- Configure Microsoft Windows networking
- Identify common features of Mac OS & Linux OS
- Security measures and their protocols
- Detect, remove and prevent malware
- Securing mobile & embedded devices
- Install & configure secure browsers
- Troubleshoot common mobile OS & application issues
- Environmental impacts & controls
Duration 4 Days
- Project Management, Project life-cycle phases, goals, scope, budget, timelines; project planning, risks, benefits realisation
- Managing tasks & resources efficiently, tracking progress, stakeholder management & effective communication
- Agile Project Management methodology: Scrum, Kanban, digital tools, closing projects
- Teams – motivation, groupthink, resolving issues/conflicts
- Practical Application – apprentices will plan a small-scale theoretical project, relevant to their apprenticeship course. Working in small groups, they will produce a full project plan, presenting it at the end of the module to other attendees.
Enjoy real-world hardware with your own virtual lab:
CertMaster Learn | Get ready to ace your CompTIA certification exams and thrive in the world of IT with CertMaster Learn. This engaging eLearning platform offers expertly crafted lessons, videos, and practice questions, all aligned with CompTIA exam objectives. Not only this but with CertMaster Labs, you’ll dive into real-world hardware scenarios, gaining hands-on experience to excel in your It career. Don’t just study – experience the future of IT learning with CertMaster Learn and Labs.
With CertMaster Learn, apprentices receive personalised Learning Plans, providing expert guidance throughout their study journey. Plus, advanced analytics track strengths and weaknesses, empowering learners to focus on areas that need improvement and maximise their potential.
Cisco Networking Academy & CompTIA Partner
The Cisco Networking Academy, part of NowSkills Level 3 Information Communications Technician Apprenticeship, provides a comprehensive pathway into networking. Aligned with industry standards, it offers recognised credentials and access to cutting-edge tools for staying competitive.
NowSkills, as a CompTIA accredited partner, integrates CompTIA’s certifications like Network+ and Server+ into our Network Engineer course. This empowers learners with essential networking and server management skills through hands-on learning, preparing them for success in the IT industry.
Technical skills, knowledge and behaviours you will gain:
K1: Approaches to back up and storage solutions
K2: Basic elements of technical documentation and its interpretation
K3: Principles of root cause problem solving using fault diagnostics for troubleshooting
K4: Principles of basic network addressing for example binary
K5: basic awareness of the principles of cloud and cloud-based services
K6: fundamental principles of virtual networks and components
K7: principles of cultural awareness and how diversity impacts on delivery of support tasks.
K8: methods of communication including level of technical terminology to use to technical and non-technical stakeholders
K9: different types of maintenance and preventative measures to reduce the incidence of faults
K10: key principles of security including the role of People, Product and Process in secure systems for example access and encryption requirements
K11: fundamentals of physical networks and components
K12: approaches to documenting tasks, findings, actions taken and outcome for example, use of task tracking and ticketing systems
K13: basic awareness of legislation in relation to disposal of waste materials for example Waste Electronic and Electrical regulations (WEEE)
K14: fundamental principles of operating systems, hardware system architectures and devices
K15: principles of remote operation of devices including how to deploy and securely integrate mobile devices into a network
K16: fundamental principles of peripherals for example: printers and scanners
K17: principles of virtualisation of servers, applications and networks
K18: principles of disaster recovery, how a disaster recovery plan works and their role within it
K19: principles of Test Plans, their role and significance
K20: fundamentals of purpose, creation and maintenance of asset registers
K21: approaches to system upgrades and updates and their significance
K22: approaches to interpretation of log files, event viewer and system tools
K23: basic elements of network infrastructure architectures including WiFi and wired networks
K24: Principles of OSI layers
K25: Principles of cloud and network architecture (including Wi-Fi)
K26: Principles of DNS / DHCP
K27: Awareness of Cloud platforms, such as AWS, Azure, or GCP
K28: Principles of LANs and WANs
K29: Approaches to virtualisation of servers, applications, and networks
K30: Principles of network protocols
K31: Principles of API’s and Web Services
K32: The different types of cloud storage
K33: Back up procedures and their importance
K34: Principles of databases and migration
K35: Key principles of Cloud Security and firewalls
K36: Awareness of DevOps methodology and tools, such as Puppet, Chef, Git, Docker
K37: Basic elements of network communication architectures for example, hardware, software, protocols and connection mediums.
K38: awareness of the purpose of firewalls
K39: different types of connectivity and cabling for example physical and remote
K40: awareness of network protocols
K41: The purpose of digital communications technologies for example, hardware, virtual and cellular technologies
K42: Main factors affecting network performance including faults and error control
K43: Principles of digital test and diagnostic equipment usage
K44: Basic principles of VPN and Remote Access Security for example transmission technologies
S1: Interpret and prioritise internal or external customer’s requirements in line with organisation’s policy
S2: Apply the appropriate tools and techniques to undertake fault finding and rectification
S3: apply Continuous Professional Development to support necessary business output and technical developments
S4: Operate safely and securely across platforms and responsibilities maintaining the security of personal data of internal and external stakeholders
S5: Communicate with all levels of stakeholders, keeping them informed of progress and managing escalation where appropriate
S6: Develop and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues, customers and other relevant stakeholders
S7: Manage and prioritise the allocated workload effectively making best use of time and resources
S8: Complete documentation relevant to the task and escalate where appropriate
S9: Install or undertake basic software upgrades,either physically or remotely
S10: Establish and diagnose the extent of the IT support task, in line with the organisation’s policies and Service Level Agreements
S11: Provide remote/F2F support to resolve customer requirements
S12: Maintain a safe working environment for own personal safety and others in line with Health & Safety appropriate to the task
S13: Identify and scope the best solution informed by the system data associated with the task
S14: Test and evaluate the system’s performance and compliance with customer requirements.
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S16: Use basic scripting to execute the relevant tasks for example PowerShell, Linux
S17: Carry out routine maintenance across systems, (such as IT, Communications), ensuring organisational compliance at all times
S18: Apply the necessary security, in line with access and/or encryption requirements
S19: Use a range of Cabling or Connectors equipment in line with technical requirements for example physically or remotely
S20: Test and evaluate network environments
S21: Monitor performance and usage of a network
S22: Deploy applications on a network
S23: Set up storage and data access for staff
S24: Apply necessary security measures, in line with access requirements to a network
S25: Carry out routine maintenance across network systems, ensuring organisational compliance
S26: Monitor network-related workloads including DNS and firewalls
S27: Install or undertake basic upgrades, either physically or remotely
S28: Establish digital communication or telecommunications systems through, for example cabling and connecting equipment.
S29: Identify a range of tools and or diagnostic equipment, for example, Hardware or Software components, to resolve Communications or Telecommunications requirements.
S30: Undertake basic telecommunications activities, in response to an allocated task, designated responsibilities, instructions or customer’s requirements.
S31: Use information necessary to identify operational issues and rectify or escalate accordingly in line with policy
B1: Works professionally, taking initiative as appropriate and acting with an ethical approach
B2: Communicates technical and non-technical information in a variety of situations to support effective working with internal or external stakeholders
B3: Demonstrates a productive and organised approach to their work
B4: Self-motivated, for example takes responsibility to complete the job.
Learner journey
Flexible, blended learning:
Employer-led and flexible, with no two apprenticeship journeys ever the same. We use a blended approach using the best live online and physical classroom teaching experiences supported with the latest self-paced e-learning. Our monthly 1:1 teaching sessions are flexible, delivered live online or in person, depending on what your organisation needs.
We include additional Social Enrichment Sessions and celebrated speakers join us monthly on NowSkills Insights. Your apprentices also have the opportunity to achieve industry-recognised certifications, beyond the scope of the apprenticeship.
Trusted by leading employers
More course details:
Becoming an ICT apprentice is perfect for those who enjoy testing infrastructure components and providing IT support. With strong problem-solving skills and a knack for troubleshooting and configuring computer systems, the Level 3 ICT apprenticeship might be your ideal fit.
You can specialize in one of three routes: Network Technician, Support Technician, or Digital Communications Technician, based on your interests and career goals. After completing the 12-15 month apprenticeship, you could apply for roles like Cloud Technician, Help Desk Support, Network Field Operative, and more.
Additional, optional certifications
CompTIA Cloud Essentials+
CompTIA A+
M365 Fundamentals MS-900
Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Level 3 Information Communications Technician Apprenticeship
Apprentices must have:
(Entry requirements vary depending on the employer’s requirements.)
- The right to work in the UK
- Lived in the UK continuously for the past 3 years
- GCSE English and maths minimum requirement at grade 3 or above (or equivalent)
- Apprentices that don’t have GCSE English and maths at the required level undertake mandatory Functional Skills as part of the apprenticeship to achieve Level 1 prior to End Point Assessment – this is at the cost of the employer
Examinations
There are no mandatory exams in the Information Communication Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship as its learners are graded based on their portfolio and the EPA.
However, the curriculum covered provides the knowledge needed to gain additional, optional certifications. These come at an extra cost, but should an apprentice and their employer choose to complete one, then our tutors can provide additional support to ensure the apprentice will succeed.
Tutor 1:1s
These take place monthly, either at the workplace or live online with the tutor.
- Teaching delivery sessions, in areas of training need to be agreed upon with the tutor
- Professional Development Reviews (PDRs), which employers must partake in
- Updating of the Professional Development Plan (PDP)
- Provision of ongoing career education, information, advice & guidance (CEIAG)
- Feedback on an apprentice’s work from a skills coach
- English, maths, and wider digital relevant skills development
- A meaningful discussion about the apprentice’s achievements
- Identifying areas for improvement, and agreeing on a consequent target plan
- Looking at progress made to date
Support in understanding and applying:
- Safeguarding; fundamental British values; health, safety, & wellbeing; and equality, diversity, and inclusion
Ongoing professional development
Apprentices will be guided by a NowSkills tutor and their workplace mentor throughout the duration of the Data Technician apprenticeship training. For a level 3 apprentice, this must be 6 hours of their working week and if they aren’t attending training in the centre, it may likely consist of:
- Mentoring sessions with the nominated suitable employer mentor
- Training in the workplace, relevant to the standard
- Producing/collating evidence for the apprentice’s summative portfolio
- Work shadowing
- Industry visits
- Attendance at competitions
- Online learning
- Studying or researching and teaching delivery
Gateway to EPA
This is the period in which the apprentice crosses the threshold phase, from the learning and formative assessment period to the end-point assessment phase. This decision will be made by the employer, training provider, and apprentice based on the apprentice’s progress. To move onto the end-point assessment phase, it is essential to have passed all the knowledge modules and/or vendor qualifications or professional qualifications and to provide a portfolio of work.