Business

Understanding Coding: Level 2 Certificate

For learners looking to gain an introduction to coding within the digital sector.

Course summary

• Qualification: NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Coding
• Level: Level 2
• Awarding body: NCFE
• Qualification number (QAN): 603/5854/3
• Guided learning: 155 hours
• Total time: 255 hours, including study and assessment
• Cost: Free if you are eligible
• Funding:
  • Adult Skills Fund

Who it's for and what you'll learn

This Understanding Coding NCFE Level 2 qualification is designed for learners who want to gain knowledge of coding, and who are looking to gain an introduction to coding. It will support the learner to progress into further study and support those interested in progressing to employment in a coding or IT related role.

This qualification aims to:

• focus on an introduction to coding within the digital sector

The objectives of this qualification are to enable the learner to gain an understanding of:

• principles of coding
• the stages of the software development cycle
• coding terminology and the key principles of writing code
• different coding types
• best practices in coding
• methods of testing and the DevOps process
• effective communication and project management in coding

What the course covers

To be awarded the Understanding Coding level 2 qualification, learners are required to successfully achieve 5 mandatory units:

Unit 1 - Understand the principles of coding

In this unit learners will gain knowledge of coding languages and the software development lifecycle. The learner will also learn about the job roles, functions and key skills requirements of a coding professional.

The learner will:

• Know about coding languages
• Understand job functions in coding
• Understand the software development lifecycle

Unit 2 - Understand terminology used in coding

In this unit, the learner will understand basic computer terminology in relation to coding. They will also learn about coding acronyms, terminology and the key principles of writing code.

The learner will:

• Understand basic computer terminology
• Understand coding acronyms and terminology
• Understand key principles when writing code

Unit 3 - Understand coding design principles

In this unit the learner will gain knowledge of different coding types and the advantages and disadvantages of their use. The learner will also understand the use of pure functions.

The learner will:

• Know about different coding types
• Understand what is meant by compiled and interpreted code
• Understand what is meant by a pure function

Unit 4 - Understand the processes and practice of coding

In this unit the learner will understand best practice in coding, methods of testing used and DevOps processes.

The learner will:

• Understand the principles of best practice in coding
• Understand the methods of testing code
• Understand DevOps processes
• Understand the importance of robust coding

Unit 5 - Understand the importance of communication and project management in coding

In this unit, the learner will understand the importance of communication for those working in a coding environment. They will also learn about project management principles and Agile developments.

The learner will:

• Understand the importance of communication
• Understand the purpose of feedback in developing communication skills
• Understand the principles of project management
• Understand Agile developments

How these courses usually work

Every provider does things a little differently, so check the details with them before you apply.

Where and how you study

Most of these courses are studied online, from home. You'll usually need internet access and a laptop or desktop computer. A phone or tablet may not be enough. Some providers can send paper workbooks if you ask.

How long it takes

• This qualification is designed to take about 255 hours in total, including study and assessment.
• Many learners finish in around 6 weeks by studying 4 to 5 hours a week. You can go faster if you have more time.
• Providers usually set a deadline, often 10 to 12 weeks after you start.

Support

Providers usually give you a tutor who marks your work and answers your questions by email, phone or message.

Assessment

There are usually no exams. Instead, you answer assessment questions as you work through the course and send them to your tutor to mark. If an answer needs more work, you can usually change it and send it again.

Your certificate

When you pass, your certificate comes from the awarding body, NCFE. It often takes 8 to 12 weeks to arrive after your final assessment.

Things to check before you start

• Many providers only let you study one funded course at a time.
• If you leave the course early, or don't finish by the deadline, some providers charge an admin or withdrawal fee, often around £125. Ask about this before you sign up.

Can I do this course for free?

ASF local flexibility: 19+, England resident, unemployed or earning under £26,800 (devolved areas vary).

Some areas of England (devolved areas such as Greater London and Greater Manchester) set their own rules, so a provider may not be able to fund you if you live there. Withdrawal or admin fees can also apply.

Check if you're eligible for this course using the "Am I eligible?" form below. It also shows which providers offer it. The provider makes the final decision.

You can also read who can get a free course.

Where can I study this?

We've found 5 providers offering this course for free to eligible learners.

Answer a few quick questions to check whether you’re likely to get this course for free. We’ll then show you which providers offer it.

What could I do next?

• More business courses

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Sources

• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Coding - List of Qualifications approved for fundingqualifications.education.gov.uk
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Codingncfe.org.uk

Last reviewed: 17 October 2026