Awarding Body:
Subject: Information Technology
Course Overview
Introduction
The NCFE Level 5 Diploma: Cloud Systems and Secure Networking is designed to give learners the knowledge, skills and behaviours required to work in a variety of roles within secure network infrastructure and cloud-based systems.
This qualification supports learners who want to upskill, retrain or progress within the digital sector. It also prepares learners for further study in cloud computing, networking and cyber security.
This qualification aims to:
- focus on cloud systems, secure networking and cyber security principles
- provide learners with practical and technical skills for modern IT infrastructure
- develop knowledge of cloud networking protocols, services and topologies
- support learners in understanding cyber security threats, risk management and compliance
- prepare learners for employment or further study in the digital sector
The objectives of this qualification are to provide learners with knowledge, skills and behaviours related to the following areas:
- cloud networking protocols, services and topologies
- cyber security threats and risk management
- network performance, optimisation and maintenance
- change management and business continuity in network infrastructure
- security compliance and legislation
- secure system administration
How CSA will deliver your programme
CSA offers Level 4 to Level 6 programmes through a blended learning model that gives learners the benefits of both online and on-campus study. You’ll spend less time on campus than in traditional courses, while still benefiting from engaging, hands-on activities during face-to-face sessions.
Our flexible approach is ideal if you’re balancing work, family or other commitments but still want to progress in higher education and develop your career in the digital and technology sector.
Online and On Campus – the best of both worlds
Online, you’ll join live, interactive evening sessions from home using your laptop or tablet. Each session lasts around three hours and includes discussions, activities and opportunities to get involved. You’ll also have access to practice questions, downloadable lesson materials, digital resources and case studies to support your learning.
At CSA, we’re committed to supporting you throughout your journey. During on-campus sessions, you’ll meet regularly with lecturers or tutors who will revisit what you’ve studied online, answer your questions and offer guidance and feedback. You’ll also work with classmates in a friendly, supportive environment that brings key ideas to life.
To make the most of your studies, we recommend setting aside 3–6 hours of independent study each week. With a combination of guided contact time and flexible self-study, you’ll experience a learning model designed to fit your life and help you succeed.
Guidance for Entry and Registration
This qualification is designed for learners who want to begin, upskill or retrain within the digital sector, particularly in cloud systems, secure networking and cyber security.
There are no specific prior skills or knowledge a learner must have for this qualification. However, learners may find it helpful if they have already achieved a relevant Level 4 qualification.
Learners must be at least 18 years old.
All learners should be capable of achieving the learning outcomes and complying with the relevant literacy, numeracy and health and safety requirements. Learners registered on this qualification should not undertake another qualification at the same level, or with the same or a similar title, as duplication of learning may affect funding eligibility.
Course Details
To be awarded this qualification, learners are required to successfully achieve 120 credits overall, which is a minimum of a pass in each of the 6 graded mandatory units.
Mandatory Units
01: Cloud networking protocols, services and topologies
Unit Reference: R/651/6926
02: Cyber security threats and risk management
Unit Reference: T/651/6927
03: Network performance, optimisation, and maintenance
Unit Reference: Y/651/6928
04: Change management and business continuity in network infrastructure
Unit Reference: A/651/6929
05: Security compliance and legislation
Unit Reference: H/651/6930
06: Secure system administration
Unit Reference: J/651/6931
Assessment
This qualification is internally assessed and externally quality assured through a portfolio of evidence, including task-based assessments.
Learners will complete practical and written tasks that demonstrate their understanding of cloud systems, secure networking, cyber security, compliance, system administration and infrastructure management.
Career Progression
Learners who achieve this qualification could progress to the following:
Employment
- Cloud Engineer
- Cloud Solutions Architect
- Cyber Security Analyst
- Network Engineer
- Security Architect
Further Education
- Related apprenticeships
Higher Education
- Cloud Computing Degree
- Networking Degree
- Cyber Security Degree
- Degree Apprenticeship
Fees & Funding
The tuition fee for the academic year 2026/2027 is £9,525 and will apply to both the new and the continuing CSA students. The course is fully funded by the Student Loan Company https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/student-loans-company. This facility is only available for home (UK resident) students. To check your student finance eligibility, please get in touch with the finance team at E: studentfinance@caspianschool.ac.uk or visit the Student Finance England website: https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
