The purpose of Pearson BTEC Higher Nationals is to develop students as independent-thinking professionals who can meet the demands of employers and adapt to a constantly changing world. The qualifications aim to widen access to higher education and improve the career prospects of those who take them.The Level 4 modules lay the foundation of learning by providing a broad introduction to digital technologies and to a range of digital technology specialist functions. This develops and strengthens core skills, while preparing students to study specialist subjects at Level 5 or to enter employment with the qualities necessary for job roles that require some personal responsibility.Students will gain a wide range of knowledge tied to practical skills gained through research, independent study, directed study and workplace scenarios. Students are involved in vocational activities that help them to develop vocational behaviours (the attitudes and approaches required for a competence) and transferable skills. Transferable skills are those such as communication, teamwork, research and analysis, which are highly valued in higher education and the workplace.The Level 5 units s give students the opportunity to specialise in a digital-technology related occupational area and to progress to degree-level study. The units prepare students to move on to specific areas of digital technologies at Level 6 or to enter employment with the qualities and abilities necessary for roles that require personal responsibility and decision making.Students will be able to develop and apply their own ideas to their studies, to deal with uncertainty and complexity, to explore solutions, demonstrate critical evaluation and use both theory and practice in a wide range of digital technology situations.