Option Descriptors (new S4-S6)
Click on the links below to view the subject course descriptor:
In addition to our core subject 'Computing Science', we also offer NPA (National Progression Award) in Games Development
Click the links below for more information.
Click the links below for more information.

NPA Games Development
This introductory qualification is designed to teach you how to code and develop computer games.
It is available at two levels: SCQF level 4 (National 4), SCQF level 5 (National 5)
Each level consists of three topics: media assets, design and development. The media assets part of the award focuses on finding and capturing digital media that could be used within a game, such as sounds, images and videos, and customising these assets to fit into a
game. The design part of the award focuses on creating a plan for the development of a computer game. The development part of the award focuses on writing code to actually producethe game.
During the award, you will gain a variety of knowledge and skills including the following.
SQA Academy Teaching materials: https://www.sqaacademy.org.uk/pluginfile.php/30460/mod_resource/content/9/12032012/index.html
More info. on the SQA site: https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/38437.html
The games that you are expected to produce will depend on the level. At the lowest level, the games will be simple; at the highest level they will be quite complex. Although you will be expected to write code, the media side is equally important since a good game comprises more than good code.
The award is assessed by a practical task that will require you to actually create a computer game. You are required to do this by yourself but you will learn in a collaborative way, along with other learners.
At the completion of the qualification you could do a higher level (of the same qualification) or progress to different qualifications in this area such as an HNC or HND or a degree course.
Check out job profiles here: https://www.planitplus.net/JobProfiles/View/570/136
This introductory qualification is designed to teach you how to code and develop computer games.
It is available at two levels: SCQF level 4 (National 4), SCQF level 5 (National 5)
Each level consists of three topics: media assets, design and development. The media assets part of the award focuses on finding and capturing digital media that could be used within a game, such as sounds, images and videos, and customising these assets to fit into a
game. The design part of the award focuses on creating a plan for the development of a computer game. The development part of the award focuses on writing code to actually producethe game.
During the award, you will gain a variety of knowledge and skills including the following.
- What media assets are available and how to capture them?
- What makes a good game?
- How to modify media assets for your game?
- How to program a computer game? Coding is essential to produce a working game independently.
- How to design a good game?
- How to test a game?
SQA Academy Teaching materials: https://www.sqaacademy.org.uk/pluginfile.php/30460/mod_resource/content/9/12032012/index.html
More info. on the SQA site: https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/38437.html
The games that you are expected to produce will depend on the level. At the lowest level, the games will be simple; at the highest level they will be quite complex. Although you will be expected to write code, the media side is equally important since a good game comprises more than good code.
The award is assessed by a practical task that will require you to actually create a computer game. You are required to do this by yourself but you will learn in a collaborative way, along with other learners.
At the completion of the qualification you could do a higher level (of the same qualification) or progress to different qualifications in this area such as an HNC or HND or a degree course.
Check out job profiles here: https://www.planitplus.net/JobProfiles/View/570/136