Computer Science
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Blocks
1
Level
A-Level
Course Length
2 Years
Timetable
Full Time
Reasons to study Computer Science
Computer Science is directly relevant to the modern and changing world of computing.
It is a practical subject where students can apply knowledge gained to write code, design websites and interrogate databases.
It combines creativity with opportunities to analyse and make decisions.
Emphasis on problem solving using computers, programming and mathematical/logic skills.
What you will study
Year 1 (AS) – characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices, software and software development, exchanging data, data types, data structures and algorithms, legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues, elements of computational thinking, algorithms problem solving and programming.
Year 2 (A-Level) – types of programming language, compression, encryption and hashing, computational methods, algorithms plus a programming project.
Entry Criteria
minimum GCSE Maths grade 5 (6 preferred)
minimum average GCSE pass of 4.8 or above
How you will be assessed
Year 1 (AS) – two exams
Year 2 (A-Level) – two exams each worth 40% plus a project worth 20%
Priestley extra
Opportunities to enter competitions such as British Informatics Olympiad and the National Cipher Competition. Visits from Barclays Bank, RAF and local website and app developers. Day trips to universities which include lectures and workshops.
Reading List
OCR AS and A-Level Computer Science, PM Heathcote RSU Heathcote
OCR A-Level Computer Science, George Rouse, Jason Pitt, Sean O’Byrne
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Progression
University courses in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Systems. Careers as a software engineer, business analyst or web developer.
How to Apply
Apply for your place early to avoid disappointment!