BACKEND WEB DEVELOPMENT
This Backend Web Development curriculum is designed for secondary school students aged 10-17, delivered over four academic years. It employs a bite-sized, project-based learning approach, aiming to equip students with entry-level backend web development skills, a strong portfolio, and essential soft skills, making them appealing to employers.
Who Can Enrol?
Enrolment is open to students who have completed the foundation levels. If you are an experienced student who wishes to bypass the foundational levels, please contact us to discuss an exception.
PHASE 1: Internet Foundations & First Server Steps
This phase introduces students to fundamental internet concepts, basic server-side logic using Node.js, and how to create simple APIs. Students will learn foundational programming concepts with JavaScript and grasp the basics of HTTP methods and request/response cycles. They will also master Git/GitHub for version control and project hosting. The culmination of this phase is a comprehensive capstone project where they build their first foundational backend project.
PHASE 1
LEVEL 1
Level 1: The Internet's Inner Workings & Getting Started with Code
COURSE OVERVIEW
In this initial level, students will gain a foundational understanding of how the internet, web browsers, and DNS work. They will be introduced to programming fundamentals using JavaScript within the Node.js environment and learn basic command-line operations, essential for interacting with the backend. This sets the stage for building server-side applications.
DURATION 12 weeks COURSE FEE £480
PHASE 1
LEVEL 1
Level 2: Building Simple Web Servers & RESTful API Introduction
COURSE OVERVIEW
This level progresses to building foundational server-side applications. Students will learn how to create basic HTTP servers using Node.js and gain an introduction to Express.js, a popular web framework. They will also be introduced to the principles of designing RESTful APIs and handling HTTP methods, along with tools like Postman/Insomnia for testing API endpoints.
DURATION 12 weeks COURSE FEE £480
NOTE: Entry to a level requires the completion of all preceding levels. Upon successful completion of a level, students will be automatically enrolled in the next one. Parents and guardians will receive a message with all the details.
PHASE 1
LEVEL 1
Level 3: Data Persistence with JSON Files & Introduction to Git/GitHub
COURSE OVERVIEW
This level introduces students to data persistence by learning to store, read, and write data using JSON files. Crucially, they will also gain an understanding of Version Control Systems and master Git and GitHub for tracking code changes, collaborating on projects, and hosting their backend applications. This prepares them for professional development workflows.
DURATION 12 weeks COURSE FEE £480
NOTE: Entry to a level requires the completion of all preceding levels. Upon successful completion of a level, students will be automatically enrolled in the next one. Parents and guardians will receive a message with all the details.
PHASE 1
LEVEL 1
Level 4: Phase 1 Capstone Group Project
COURSE OVERVIEW
This is the dedicated capstone project level for Phase 1. Students will be assigned a comprehensive capstone project where they can apply all the knowledge and skills gained throughout Levels 1, 2, and 3. This project will require them to integrate internet fundamentals, basic server-side logic, simple API creation, data persistence with JSON, and Git/GitHub for version control and hosting. This level is purely project-based, allowing students to solidify their understanding and demonstrate their proficiency in foundational backend web development.
DURATION 12 weeks COURSE FEE £480
NOTE: Entry to a level requires the completion of all preceding levels. Upon successful completion of a level, students will be automatically enrolled in the next one. Parents and guardians will receive a message with all the details.
COURSE CONTENT
Phase 1 Level 1
Level 1: The Internet’s Inner Workings & Getting Started with Code
Technical Skills Covered:
Understand how the internet, web browsers, and DNS work
Introduction to Programming Fundamentals (JavaScript/Node.js)
Introduction to the Command Line
Soft Skills Integration:
Analytical Reasoning: Applied when understanding internet protocols and debugging initial code.
Problem Definition: Key in breaking down initial programming challenges.
Attention to Detail: Crucial for writing correct code syntax and command-line inputs.
Personal Project: Students will be assigned a simple project where they can apply everything they have learnt in this level.
Phase 1 Level 2
Level 2: Building Simple Web Servers & RESTful API Introduction
Technical Skills Covered:
Create simple web servers
Building a basic HTTP server
Introduction to Node.js and Express.js
Designing RESTful APIs and handling HTTP Methods
Introduction to Postman/Insomnia
Soft Skills Integration:
Innovation and Creativity: Encouraged in designing simple API features.
Critical Evaluation: Essential for testing API reliability using tools like Postman/Insomnia.
Communication Skills: Practised through documenting basic API endpoints.
Simple Level Project: Students will be assigned a simple project where they can apply everything they have learnt in this level.
Phase 1 Level 3
Level 3: Data Persistence with JSON Files & Introduction to Git/GitHub
Technical Skills Covered:
Data Persistence with JSON Files: storing, reading, and writing to files
Master Git and GitHub for version control and project hosting
Soft Skills Integration:
Organisational Skills: Essential for managing project structure and version control.
Teamwork and Collaboration: Central to using Git/GitHub for shared development.
Attention to Detail: Crucial for managing database transactions (file operations in this case) and correct Git commands.
Simple Level Project: Students will be assigned a simple project where they can apply everything they have learnt in this level.
Phase 1 Level 4
Level 4: Phase 1 Capstone Project
Capstone Project: Students will be assigned a comprehensive capstone project where they can apply everything they have learnt throughout Phase 1.
Soft Skills Integration:
Problem-Solving: Key to breaking down complex features and identifying root causes of issues within their capstone project.
Time Management: Practised through managing project deadlines within the phase.
Presentation Skills: Explicitly practised through project presentations.
Data Storytelling: Applied when explaining API design decisions and the flow of data in their project.
PHASE 2: Databases, Authentication & Intermediate APIs
In Phase 2, students will advance their backend skills by gaining proficiency in relational and non-relational databases, implementing user authentication, and building more complex, secure APIs. They will learn to understand and implement various database types, user authentication and authorisation, and deepen their understanding of Git for collaborative workflows. This phase prepares them to create more robust and secure backend applications.
PHASE 2
LEVEL 1
Level 1: Relational Databases & SQL Fundamentals
COURSE OVERVIEW
This level introduces students to relational databases and the SQL query language. They will learn about database design, schema creation, and fundamental CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) operations using PostgreSQL. This provides them with the essential skills for managing structured data in backend applications.
DURATION 12 weeks COURSE FEE £480
NOTE: Entry to a level requires the completion of all preceding levels. Upon successful completion of a level, students will be automatically enrolled in the next one. Parents and guardians will receive a message with all the details.
PHASE 2
LEVEL 2
Level 2: Non-Relational Databases (NoSQL) & MongoDB, Intermediate API Development
COURSE OVERVIEW
Building on their database knowledge, students in this level will explore non-relational databases (NoSQL) and gain practical experience with MongoDB, working with JSON documents. They will then apply this knowledge to build more robust intermediate-level RESTful APIs, incorporating data validation and utilising middleware for efficient API processing.
DURATION 12 weeks COURSE FEE £480
NOTE: Entry to a level requires the completion of all preceding levels. Upon successful completion of a level, students will be automatically enrolled in the next one. Parents and guardians will receive a message with all the details.
PHASE 2
LEVEL 3
Level 3: User Authentication & Authorisation, Environment Variables & Advanced Git
COURSE OVERVIEW
This level focuses on implementing secure user authentication and authorisation in backend applications. Students will learn about various authentication strategies, including session-based and token-based (JWT), and the importance of password hashing. They will also implement authorisation based on roles and permissions. Additionally, they will learn about environment variables for secure configuration and deepen their understanding of Git branching and merging for effective teamwork.
DURATION 12 weeks COURSE FEE £480
NOTE: Entry to a level requires the completion of all preceding levels. Upon successful completion of a level, students will be automatically enrolled in the next one. Parents and guardians will receive a message with all the details.
PHASE 2
LEVEL 4
Level 4: Phase 2 Capstone Group Project
COURSE OVERVIEW
This is the dedicated capstone project level for Phase 2. Students will be assigned a comprehensive capstone project where they can apply all the knowledge and skills gained throughout Levels 1, 2, and 3. This project will require them to integrate relational and non-relational databases, implement user authentication and authorisation, and build complex, secure APIs. It will also involve collaborative Git workflows. This level is purely project-based, allowing students to solidify their understanding and demonstrate their ability to create robust and secure backend applications.
DURATION 12 weeks COURSE FEE £480
NOTE: Entry to a level requires the completion of all preceding levels. Upon successful completion of a level, students will be automatically enrolled in the next one. Parents and guardians will receive a message with all the details.
COURSE CONTENT
Phase 2 Level 1
Level 2.1: Relational Databases & SQL Fundamentals
Technical Skills Covered:
Understand and implement relational databases (PostgreSQL) and SQL
Introduction to Relational Databases and SQL
PostgreSQL fundamentals
Database design and schema
CRUD operations with SQL
Soft Skills Integration:
Analytical Reasoning: Applied when designing database schemas and debugging SQL queries.
Attention to Detail: Crucial for writing precise SQL queries and managing database transactions.
Problem Definition: Key in designing database structures to meet application needs.
Simple Level Project: Students will be assigned a simple project where they can apply everything they have learnt in this level.
Phase 2 Level 2
Level 2.2: Non-Relational Databases (NoSQL) & MongoDB, Intermediate API Development
Technical Skills Covered:
Learn about non-relational databases (MongoDB) and NoSQL concepts
Introduction to NoSQL Databases
MongoDB fundamentals and working with JSON documents
Master building intermediate-level RESTful APIs with data validation
Building robust APIs with database integration
Data validation and error handling
Middleware for API processing
Soft Skills Integration:
Innovation and Creativity: Encouraged in designing more complex API features.
Critical Evaluation: Essential for testing API reliability and data validation.
Understanding Business Needs: Considered when designing robust APIs and ensuring data security.
Simple Level Project: Students will be assigned a simple project where they can apply everything they have learnt in this level.
Phase 2 Level 3
Level 2.3: User Authentication & Authorisation, Environment Variables & Advanced Git
Technical Skills Covered:
Implement user authentication and authorisation using various strategies
Authentication strategies (session-based, token-based JWT)
Password hashing and security
Implementing authorisation (roles, permissions)
Learn about environment variables and secure configuration
Deepen understanding of Git branching and merging for teamwork
Soft Skills Integration:
Critical Evaluation: Essential for identifying security vulnerabilities and assessing authentication strategies.
Attention to Detail: Crucial for writing secure code and managing configurations.
Teamwork and Collaboration: Central to effective Git branching and merging.
Simple Level Project: Students will be assigned a simple project where they can apply everything they have learnt in this level.
Phase 2 Level 4
Level 2.4: Phase 2 Capstone Project
Capstone Project: Students will be assigned a comprehensive capstone project where they can apply everything they have learnt throughout Phase 2.
Soft Skills Integration:
Problem-Solving: Key in breaking down complex features, identifying root causes of issues, and designing API contracts for their project.
Time Management: Practised through managing project deadlines within the phase.
Presentation Skills: Explicitly practised through project presentations.
Critical Evaluation: Essential for identifying security vulnerabilities and assessing performance bottlenecks.
PHASE 3: Advanced APIs, Testing & Deployment
Phase 3 focuses on building production-ready backend applications, writing testable code, and deploying applications to the cloud. Students will learn to implement caching and logging mechanisms for performance and monitoring. They will also explore WebSocket for real-time communication and understand continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD) principles. This phase prepares them for more advanced backend development roles.
PHASE 3
LEVEL 1
Level 1: Backend Testing & Real-time Communication with WebSockets
COURSE OVERVIEW
This level focuses on ensuring the quality and reliability of backend applications through comprehensive testing. Students will learn to write unit, integration, and end-to-end tests for Node.js/Express.js applications, utilising test runners and assertion libraries. Additionally, they will be introduced to WebSockets and learn to build real-time features, such as chat applications, enabling dynamic, instantaneous communication.
DURATION 12 weeks COURSE FEE £480
NOTE: Entry to a level requires the completion of all preceding levels. Upon successful completion of a level, students will be automatically enrolled in the next one. Parents and guardians will receive a message with all the details.
PHASE 3
LEVEL 2
Level 2: Deployment & DevOps Fundamentals
COURSE OVERVIEW
This level introduces students to deploying backend applications to cloud platforms. They will gain practical experience with services like Heroku/Render and understand conceptual CI/CD pipelines. Emphasis will also be placed on managing environment variables and production configurations to ensure secure and efficient deployments.
DURATION 12 weeks COURSE FEE £480
NOTE: Entry to a level requires the completion of all preceding levels. Upon successful completion of a level, students will be automatically enrolled in the next one. Parents and guardians will receive a message with all the details.
PHASE 3
LEVEL 3
Level 3: Caching, Logging & Monitoring
COURSE OVERVIEW
This level is dedicated to ensuring the quality and reliability of frontend applications through comprehensive testing and advanced debugging techniques. Students will understand the importance and different types of testing (Unit, Integration, E2E) and gain practical experience with Vitest for unit testing React components and Cypress for end-to-end (E2E) testing. They will also master advanced debugging with Developer Tools, preparing them to build robust and error-free applications.
DURATION 12 weeks COURSE FEE £480
NOTE: Entry to a level requires the completion of all preceding levels. Upon successful completion of a level, students will be automatically enrolled in the next one. Parents and guardians will receive a message with all the details.
PHASE 3
LEVEL 4
Level 4: Phase 3 Capstone Group Project
COURSE OVERVIEW
This is the dedicated capstone project level for Phase 3. Students will be assigned a comprehensive capstone project where they can apply all the knowledge and skills gained throughout Levels 1, 2, and 3. This project will require them to build production-ready backend applications, write testable code, deploy applications to the cloud, and implement caching and logging. It will also involve real-time communication using WebSockets. This level is purely project-based, allowing students to solidify their understanding and demonstrate their ability to create robust, deployed, and performant backend services.
DURATION 12 weeks COURSE FEE £480
NOTE: Entry to a level requires the completion of all preceding levels. Upon successful completion of a level, students will be automatically enrolled in the next one. Parents and guardians will receive a message with all the details.
COURSE CONTENT
Phase 3 Level 1
Level 1: Backend Testing & Real-time Communication with WebSockets
Technical Skills Covered:
- Learn to write unit, integration, and end-to-end tests for backend services
- Introduction to testing (unit, integration, E2E)
- Writing tests for Node.js/Express.js applications
- Test runners and assertion libraries
- Explore WebSocket for real-time communication
- Introduction to WebSockets and building real-time features (chat applications)
Soft Skills Integration:
- Critical Evaluation: Essential for reviewing code and assessing API reliability through testing.
- Attention to Detail: Crucial for writing accurate tests.
- Innovation and Creativity: Encouraged in designing real-time features.
Simple Level Project: Students will be assigned a simple project where they can apply everything they have learnt in this level.
Phase 3 Level 2
Level 2: Deployment & DevOps Fundamentals
Technical Skills Covered:
- Deploy backend applications to cloud platforms (Heroku/Render)
- Understand continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD) principles
- Environment variables and production configuration
Soft Skills Integration:
- Adaptability: Developed by learning new deployment platforms.
- Organisational Skills: Essential for managing project structure and configurations for deployment.
- Understanding Business Needs: Considered when planning for scalability and deployment.
Simple Level Project: Students will be assigned a simple project where they can apply everything they have learnt in this level.
Phase 3 Level 3
Level 3: Caching, Logging & Monitoring
Technical Skills Covered:
- Implement caching mechanisms for performance optimisation
- Caching strategies (Redis)
- Understand logging and monitoring for application health
- Logging and error tracking
- Monitoring application performance
Soft Skills Integration:
- Critical Evaluation: Essential for assessing performance bottlenecks and identifying areas for improvement.
- Problem-Solving: Key in identifying and addressing performance issues.
- Time Management: Practised through managing performance optimisation within deadlines.
Simple Level Project: Students will be assigned a simple project where they can apply everything they have learnt in this level.
Phase 3 Level 4
Level 4: Phase 3 Capstone Project
Capstone Project: Students will be assigned a comprehensive capstone project where they can apply everything they have learnt throughout Phase 3.
Soft Skills Integration:
- Problem-Solving: Applied when designing database schemas, debugging complex server logic, and architecting systems for their project.
- Communication Skills: Practised through documenting APIs and explaining architectural decisions.
- Time Management: Practised through managing project deadlines within the phase.
- Industry Knowledge: Built through exposure to industry-standard tools and best practices.
PHASE 4: Microservices, Scalability & Advanced Topics
In this final phase, students will gain an understanding of microservices architecture, scalability patterns, API gateways, serverless computing, and integrating AI APIs, preparing them for advanced backend roles. They will explore containerisation with Docker and advanced database concepts. This phase aims to equip students with the knowledge to design and implement highly scalable, distributed backend systems.
PHASE 4
LEVEL 1
Level 1: Microservices Architecture & Serverless Computing
COURSE OVERVIEW
This level introduces students to microservices architecture, exploring its benefits and patterns for designing and breaking down services, along with communication patterns between them. Students will also learn about serverless computing and its applications, specifically building serverless APIs using platforms like AWS Lambda or Google Cloud Functions.
DURATION 12 weeks COURSE FEE £480
NOTE: Entry to a level requires the completion of all preceding levels. Upon successful completion of a level, students will be automatically enrolled in the next one. Parents and guardians will receive a message with all the details.
PHASE 4
LEVEL 2
Level 2: Containerisation with Docker & AI Integration through APIs
COURSE OVERVIEW
This level delves into containerisation using Docker, teaching students how to containerise backend applications and use Docker Compose for multi-service applications. Furthermore, students will explore the integration of AI services and machine learning models via APIs, consuming AI APIs for functionalities such as natural language processing or image recognition, thus enhancing their backend applications with intelligent capabilities.
DURATION 12 weeks COURSE FEE £480
NOTE: Entry to a level requires the completion of all preceding levels. Upon successful completion of a level, students will be automatically enrolled in the next one. Parents and guardians will receive a message with all the details.
PHASE 4
LEVEL 3
Level 4.3: Advanced Database Concepts & Scalability Patterns
COURSE OVERVIEW
This level focuses on advanced database concepts and scalability patterns essential for high-performance backend systems. Students will learn about advanced database concepts like sharding and replication, crucial for handling large datasets and high traffic. They will gain an understanding of various scalability patterns, ensuring their applications can handle increasing loads efficiently. The curriculum also introduces API gateways for managing microservices, providing a unified entry point to distributed systems.
DURATION 12 weeks COURSE FEE £480
NOTE: Entry to a level requires the completion of all preceding levels. Upon successful completion of a level, students will be automatically enrolled in the next one. Parents and guardians will receive a message with all the details.
PHASE 4
LEVEL 4
Level 4: Phase 4 Capstone Group Project & Mock Interviews
COURSE OVERVIEW
This is the dedicated capstone project level for Phase 4. Students will be assigned a comprehensive capstone project where they can apply all the knowledge and skills gained throughout Levels 1, 2, and 3. This project will showcase their understanding of microservices architecture, scalability patterns, API gateways, serverless computing, and integrating AI APIs. This level is purely project-based, allowing students to solidify their understanding and demonstrate their ability to design and implement highly scalable, distributed backend systems, preparing them for advanced backend roles.
DURATION 12 weeks COURSE FEE £480
NOTE: Entry to a level requires the completion of all preceding levels. Upon successful completion of a level, students will be automatically enrolled in the next one. Parents and guardians will receive a message with all the details.
COURSE CONTENT
Phase 4 Level 1
Level 1: Microservices Architecture & Serverless Computing
Technical Skills Covered:
- Understand microservices architecture and its benefits
- Introduction to Microservices, designing and breaking down services, service communication patterns
- Learn about serverless computing and its applications
- Introduction to serverless architecture (AWS Lambda/Google Cloud Functions)
- Building serverless APIs
Soft Skills Integration:
- Analytical Reasoning: Applied when architecting systems into microservices.
- Problem Definition: Key in breaking down complex features into services.
- Innovation and Creativity: Encouraged in designing unique API features and solving scaling problems.
Simple Level Project: Students will be assigned a simple project where they can apply everything they have learnt in this level.
Phase 4 Level 2
Level 2: Containerisation with Docker & AI Integration through APIs
Technical Skills Covered:
- Explore containerisation with Docker
- Introduction to Docker, containerising backend applications, Docker Compose for multi-service applications
- Integrate AI services and machine learning models via APIs
- Introduction to AI and ML concepts in backend
- Consuming AI APIs (e.g., natural language processing, image recognition)
Soft Skills Integration:
- Adaptability: Developed by learning new technologies like Docker and AI integration.
- Problem-Solving: Key in solving complex scaling problems using containerisation.
- Industry Knowledge: Built through exposure to industry-standard tools and practices.
Simple Level Project: Students will be assigned a simple project where they can apply everything they have learnt in this level.
Phase 4 Level 3
Level 4.3: Advanced Database Concepts & Scalability Patterns
Technical Skills Covered:
- Understand advanced database concepts like sharding and replication
- Implement API gateways for managing microservices
Soft Skills Integration:
- Analytical Reasoning: Applied when designing database schemas for scalability.
- Critical Evaluation: Essential for assessing performance bottlenecks and designing scalable solutions.
- Understanding Business Needs: Considered when planning for scalability.
Simple Level Project: Students will be assigned a simple project where they can apply everything they have learnt in this level.
Phase 4 Level 4
Level 4.4: Phase 4 Capstone Project
Capstone Project: Students will be assigned a comprehensive capstone project where they can apply everything they have learnt throughout Phase 4.
Soft Skills Integration:
- Problem Definition: Key in identifying root causes of issues and designing API contracts for their project.
- Time Management: Practised through managing project deadlines within the phase.
- Presentation Skills: Explicitly practised through project presentations.
- Industry Knowledge: Built through exposure to industry-standard tools, best practices, and project simulations.
- Tailoring Communication: Developing the ability to explain technical backend concepts to non-technical audiences during presentations.
- Active Listening: Important when gathering requirements and receiving feedback.
SCHEDULE: STANDARD, FAST PACE, & 1-TO-1
Enrolment is open to students who have completed the foundation level. Use the button below to discuss an exception. We offer a flexible schedule with multiple start times available every month, allowing you to choose the time that best suits you. While our standard pace is designed to accommodate everyone’s needs, we also provide a fast-pace option for students who are determined to complete the programme before they turn 18. This is particularly beneficial for students in year 10 and 11 who need to complete the curriculum before they are 18. Please note that seats for all classes are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
STANDARD SCHEDULE
Classes run for 12 weeks with one 2-hour session per week. New sessions start every month, with multiple start times available to choose from. A £50 registration fee is required to secure your place. The maximum class size is 5 to 7, and the total fee is £480.
Available dates and times are listed in the application form.
FAST PACE SCHEDULE
Classes run for 6 weeks with two 2-hour sessions per week. New sessions start every month, with multiple start times available to choose from. A £50 registration fee is required to secure your place. The maximum class size is 5 to 7, and the total fee is £480. Available dates and times are listed in the application form.
PRIVATE (ONE-TO-ONE)
The private one-to-one is available on demand. It costs £1800 and covers a total of 12 sessions (2 hours per session). You can tailor the frequency and start times to your individual needs, allowing you to complete the sessions at a pace that suits you.
Also Included
Our comprehensive curriculum goes beyond technical skills to ensure your success. We prioritise essential professional skills like communication and problem-solving, integrate the theory and practice of AI, and provide support for professional certifications and job preparation.
Professional Skills
Our programmes go beyond technical training to include essential professional skills. This focus on workplace readiness is crucial for building confidence and giving students a competitive edge in their future careers.
Artificial Intelligence
The practical application of Artificial Intelligence is integrated into all our courses. This is crucial for equipping students with future-proof skills, giving them a competitive edge in any modern career path.
Professional Certifications
Our programmes provide a valuable opportunity to prepare for industry-recognised certifications in mobile development. While pursuing certification is optional, it offers several key advantages for your job search.
Job Preparation Support
We offer comprehensive job preparation support, helping students with everything from CV writing to interview skills. This is essential for building confidence and securing their first job in the industry.