Computer Science
Computer Science is a practical subject where students apply academic principles learned in the classroom to real-world systems. It is a creative subject that combines invention and excitement, and can look at the natural world through a digital prism. The course enables learners to understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, and gives students the opportunity to learn computational thinking, helping them develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand the power and limits of human and machine intelligence.
Course content
The qualification focuses on programming and emphasises computational thinking as a discipline, with an expanded focus on maths embedded within the course. Computer Systems covers the characteristics of contemporary processors, software and its development, types of programming languages, data types, representation and structures, exchanging data and web technologies, algorithms, Boolean algebra, and legal, moral and ethical issues. Algorithms and Programming covers elements of computational thinking, programming and problem solving, pattern recognition, abstraction and decomposition, and algorithm design and efficiency. Students also complete a Programming Project, selecting their own user-driven problem to analyse, design, implement and evaluate.
Entry requirements and skills
Students must have taken GCSE Computer Science. They should demonstrate strong logical and problem-solving skills, a good grasp of mathematics, programming proficiency, and the ability to think analytically, creatively and critically. Computer Science is traditionally combined with Mathematics or the Sciences, though this is not essential.
Assessment
All content is examined at the end of the two-year course through three components. Paper 1, Computer Systems, is an externally marked written paper (2 hours 30 minutes, 40%). Paper 2, Algorithms and Programming, is an externally marked written paper (2 hours 30 minutes, 40%). The Programming Project is coursework with an emphasis on coding and programming (20%).
Enrichment
Our Computer Science Clinic invites students to work on coursework and programming projects outside of lesson time. Lego Robotics Club students can build and test their own Lego robots.
A highlight for students is the International Enrichment trip, which includes a visit to San Francisco.
Future pathways
Based on their results, students apply for a wide range of Computer Science and Software Engineering related degrees, or take an apprenticeship route to gain experience and qualifications as a software engineer or developer.
A Level Computer Science FAQs
What exam board is A Level Computer Science?
The course follows the OCR Computer Science specification (H446).
Do I need GCSE Computer Science to take A Level Computer Science?
Yes. Students must have taken GCSE Computer Science. They should also have strong logical and problem-solving skills, a good grasp of mathematics and programming proficiency.
What topics are covered in A Level Computer Science?
The course covers Computer Systems (processors, software development, programming languages, data representation, web technologies, algorithms, Boolean algebra and ethical issues) and Algorithms and Programming (computational thinking, problem solving, abstraction and algorithm design). Students also complete a Programming Project.
How is A Level Computer Science assessed?
Assessment is through three components: Paper 1, Computer Systems (2 hours 30 minutes, 40%); Paper 2, Algorithms and Programming (2 hours 30 minutes, 40%); and a Programming Project completed as coursework (20%).
What is the Programming Project?
With guidance from a teacher, students select their own user-driven problem of an appropriate size and complexity to solve. They analyse the problem, design and implement a solution, and provide a thorough evaluation. It is worth 20% of the final marks.
What can A Level Computer Science lead to?
Students progress to a wide range of Computer Science and Software Engineering degrees, or take an apprenticeship route to qualify as a software engineer or developer.