A Level Computer Science
Course Code: Q100109
Key Information
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Course type
A Levels
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Campus:
Sixth Form Campus
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Start Date:
Sept 23
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Duration:
Two years
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Attendance:
Full-time
16-18 school leaver fee:
Free
An underpinning subject for science and engineering fields, computer science is also key for anyone looking to go into the mobile and gaming industries.
Units include:
- how to design, write and test programs
- how a computer system deals with data
- developing skills such as problem solving, as well as thinking creatively, innovatively, logically and critically
- developing computer science knowledge alongside practical programming
- application of computer science principles, such as abstraction, decomposition, logic algorithms and data representation
- working with binary and boolean algebra.
A primary skill that will be developed is the ability to think logically. As with mathematics, in computer science the answer is either correct or incorrect. Using logic to achieve the answer is a key skill; however, we will also look at artificial intelligence where it is possible to achieve an answer that is not quite correct.
You can take part in a work experience placement and workshops in areas such as CV writing, creating an online professional image and interview skills. Volunteering through the National Citizen Service or participating in the Duke of Edinburgh Award can set you apart from the rest.
A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including a grade 5 or above in GCSE maths, and grade 5 or above in computer science if taken at GCSE.
Assessments will comprise 60% personal investigation and 40% externally set practical exam. Your coursework is internally assessed and externally moderated.
You will have a 9.55am start, one lesson in the morning, one in the afternoon and a guaranteed 4pm finish. You will also have at least one morning and one afternoon per week free for private study.
You can progress to university with some of the directly related progression courses including software engineering, computer science, forensic computing, and computer games technology. Other courses are physics and maths-based disciplines. Apprenticeships in computer science and IT are also available, including higher apprenticeships.
