Computer Science (A Level)  

*This course cannot be studied as part of a blended programme.

What Will You Learn?

This subject explores the relationship between hardware potential, software development, application of the
principles associated with computational thinking. You will find this course an exciting blend of problem solving,
systems design and operation, and legal and ethical considerations. You will analyse, design, develop, test,
evaluate and document a program written in a suitable programming language.

A highlight of the course is the individual programming project. Our students really enjoy working on this. It is chosen by you, and gives you the opportunity to work independently. You will be expected to apply the principles of computational thinking to this practical coding programming project. You will develop your technical understanding, where you will have to apply academic principles to real world systems. You will learn how to analyse, critically evaluate and make decisions as well as thinking creatively and innovatively. These are skills which stretch across many subject disciplines and will prepare you for higher study in this or other related subjects.

Modules

Module 1: Computer Systems

Students are introduced to the internal workings of the (CPU), data exchange, software development, data types and legal and ethical issues. The resulting knowledge and understanding will underpin their work in module 3.

It covers:

• The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices
• Types of software and the different methodologies used to develop software
• Data exchange between different systems
• Data types, data structures and algorithms
• Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues.

Module 2 Algorithms and Programming

This builds on module 1 to include computational thinking and problem-solving.

It covers:

• What is meant by computational thinking (thinking abstractly, thinking ahead, thinking procedurally etc.)
• Problem solving and programming – how computers and programs can be used to solve problems
• Algorithms and how they can be used to describe and solve problems.

Module 3: Programming Project

Students are expected to apply the principles of computational thinking to a practical coding programming project. They will analyse, design, develop, test, evaluate and document a program written in a suitable programming language. The project is designed to be independently chosen by the student and provides them with the flexibility to investigate projects within the diverse field of computer science. 

Special Features

• Computer Systems, Algorithms and Processing, practical programming project.
• Opportunities to get involved with competitions like the European CyberCup, we also offer a specialist course in cyber security and have a programme of visiting speakers from industry and higher education to incentivise you.

Where Will This Lead?

From this course, students will have the option to go onto a range of university courses across the country to study Computer Science, Software Engineering, Cyber Security, App. Design and Development, Games Design and creation degrees. In addition to this, there are a large range of degree apprenticeships and direct employment opportunities.