Computer Science – A Level

Special Entry Requirements

In addition to the A Level entry requirements you need a minimum of a grade 5 in GCSE Maths

Subject Intent

The Computer Science curriculum allows students to apply both abstract concepts and mathematics in real world solutions, making the course have a real life and relevant focus. Computer Science qualifications address the shortage in the UK jobs market, preparing our students for a wide range of degree courses, apprenticeships, and future roles in an ever evolving and exciting sector.

Course Introduction

Computing develops problem-solving ability using an algorithmic approach. It teaches programming in a fun and challenging way. It also develops an understanding of hardware and software. It provides a firm basis for a Computing degree, and we recommend Computing rather than IT to students with this aim.

Preparing for A Level Computer Science

We have created a transition pack to show you the kind of work that you will be doing at level 3 and to help you prepare for September.

Computer Science transition pack

If you have any questions about the course, please email admissions@s6f.org.uk

Course Modules

Component 1: Computer systems

This component will introduce learners to the internal workings of the Central Processing Unit (CPU), the exchange of data and will also look at software development, data types, data structures, Boolean algebra, networks, web technologies and legal and ethical issues. It is expected that learners will draw on this underpinning content when studying computational thinking, developing programming techniques and devising their own programming approach in the Programming project component (3).

Written examination: 2.5 hours. 40% of qualification

Component 2: Algorithms and programming

This component will incorporate and build on the knowledge and understanding gained in the Computer Systems component (01).
In addition, learners should:

understand what is meant by computational thinking
understand the benefits of applying computational thinking to solving a wide variety of problems
understand the principles of solving problems by computational methods
be able to use algorithms to describe problems
be able to analyse a problem by identifying its component parts.

Written examination: 2.5 hours. 40% of qualification

Component 3: Programming project

Learners will be expected to analyse, design, develop, test, evaluate and document a program written in a suitable programming language. The underlying approach to the project is to apply the principles of computational thinking to a practical coding problem. Learners are expected to apply appropriate principles from an agile development approach to the project development.

Programming evidence, code and report: 20% of qualification