NCFE L1 Certificate in Digital Skills

This qualification is ideal for those looking to improve their digital confidence and prepare for future study or employment in digitally focused roles.

The NCFE Level 1 Certificate in Digital Skills provides a practical introduction to the essential digital tools and behaviours needed for success in both personal and professional settings.

Learners develop foundational skills across online safety, collaboration, word processing and digital research. This course has also been enriched with contemporary content to reflect real-world digital practices, including the responsible use of AI for information retrieval, collaborative platforms like Microsoft Loop and Miro for teamwork, and creative tools such as Canva for professional document production.

The course is portfolio-based, meaning learners will complete real tasks that demonstrate their skills across a variety of digital contexts.

Learners will study the following units:

Find and Use Information – Learn to use search engines effectively, evaluate online sources, and understand digital copyright. This is enhanced by using generative AI tools to research and verify information efficiently and responsibly.

Safety and Security When Using Data and Digital Devices – Focuses on protecting personal and organisational data, recognising cyber threats, and using devices securely in public and work environments.

Communicating and Collaborating Online – Covers effective email and social media use, understanding online reputation, cyberbullying awareness, and digital collaboration. Learners will explore modern tools such as Microsoft Loop and Miro boards to plan and co-create content in real time.

Using Word Processing Software – Teaches how to create, format, and edit documents. Learners will also use Canva’s document suite to design engaging, professional materials suitable for workplace use.

Digital Career Development – Develops understanding of online identity, digital CVs, using social platforms for job searches, and accessing online learning tools for lifelong career growth.

Upon achieving this qualification, learners will be well-prepared for entry-level roles where digital literacy is essential. Potential job roles include:

Office/Administrative Assistant

Customer Service Advisor (Digital Contact Centres)

Retail Assistant (with ePOS systems)

Receptionist or Front Desk Support

Data Entry Clerk

Junior Marketing Assistant (supporting digital campaigns)

The qualification provides a pathway to further digital qualifications, such as a Level 2 Certificate in IT User Skills or Digital Promotion for Business, enabling learners to specialise further or progress into digital apprenticeships or employment.

The Certificate in Digital Skills requires learners to have an interest in the subjects being covered. As this is a Level 1 course, learners need a basic level of literacy and numeracy to enable them to complete the assignments.

Throughout each unit learners will complete coursework to demonstrate their understanding of the requirements of that module. Learners will also complete more in depth work projects on some of the units.

September 2025

20 weeks at 3 hours per week class time, plus 3 hours per week of independent project work.