COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
GCSE Computer Science at Grade 4 or above. If not studied previously, GCSE Mathematics at Grade 4 or above. In addition to these basic entry requirements all students looking to take Computer Science at A Level would benefit from deepening their computer programming skills in preparation for the course.

WHAT IS THE COURSE CONTENT AND HOW WILL I BE EXAMINED?

YEAR 12
Computing principles – This serves as an introduction to computer science covering a variety of topics
allowing students to understand the basics of how computers work.
Algorithms and problem solving component – This relates principally to problem solving skills and will
cover elements of computational thinking Problem solving and programming and Algorithms.

YEAR 13
Computer systems – This builds on the topics studied in computing principles in Year 1, allowing the
students to gain a deeper understanding of the topics. (Years 1 and 2 – external examination).
Algorithms and programming – This builds on algorithms and problem solving studied in year 1.
Students will further develop their problem solving skills learning to think algorithmically.
(Years 1 and 2 – external examination).

Programming project – Students undertake a programming project to demonstrate the skills and
knowledge they have gained. Students are able to set their own brief for the project. (Internally marked
and externally moderated project).