A second call of applications has been issued for the Second Step training programme.

Applications will be received till Friday; late applications will not be considered. Placements are limited and are subject to pre-defined selection criteria.

The Second Step training programme, part-financed by the European Union through the European Social Fund, is a training programme that leads successful applicants to an ICT Vocational Education and Training (VET) Diploma that is recognised by the Malta Qualifications Recognition Information Centre (MQRIC).

All successful candidates will achieve a BTEC National Diploma for IT Practitioners that is a Level 4 EQF/MQF certification.

Students may choose one of the following diplomas: Diploma in Information Systems; Diploma in Information Technology; and Diploma in Computing and Information Systems.

BTEC national diplomas provide specialist work-related qualifications that cover the key knowledge and practical skills required for employment in the ICT sector and are also suitable for those individuals who do not currently work in the ICT sector but wish to embark on a professional ICT career.

The diplomas are hands-on courses in which students will study real-life, work-based case studies and complete projects.

The Second Step programme is available on a full- or part-time basis. Students also have the possibility to cover 40 per cent of the course through an online training system from the comfort of their home – a system that is being recognised as a very important tool by current students.

More information, course content and entry requirements are available on www.mita.gov.mt. Interested participants should also use the website to apply online.