Computer Science
Why choose Computer Science?
A Level Computer Science offers the chance for pupils to deepen their knowledge and understanding of computing and of computation. It is not only for those who want to gain a grasp of programming languages and their application but also of those who want to gain an insight into how computers affect and shape the world that we live in. It gives pupils the opportunity to imagine how they can play a part in the industries, economies and technological advancements of tomorrow.
What does the course entail?
The course delivers an in-depth understanding of computation and the ability to simulate a wide variety of scenarios through the use of algorithms and programming such as decision making, the logic of computer games and searching and sorting data. In the second year of the course pupils will have the opportunity to put this into practice when they create their own software or perform an investigation into a certain area of computing such as 3D rendering, data processing or mathematical simulation.
Types of learning
As well as giving students the power to create their own software and systems the A Level Computer Science qualification also gives them an understanding of how computers function. The way they represent and store data, the way they interact with their users and function as a collective group of devices in a network. Students will also study the impact of computers on the wider world, considering their effect on society, culture, morality and ethics. The qualification is examined in the form of two papers: “Computer Systems” and “Algorithms and Programming” as well as a programming project that places a huge emphasis on coding software from scratch; independently researching, designing, developing and testing the end product.
Whilst a GCSE in Computer Science is not a requirement, pupils should have a high level of IT competency, a firm grounding in Mathematics and at least some experience of computer programming to give them the best possible chance of success in this course.