Head of Department
Mr M Peddle
Why choose the subject?
Computer Science is about problem solving with computer technology and computational thinking. Students develop their coding skills with Python to create solutions in a variety of business, scientific and social contexts. Students will enjoy the freedom and the creative challenges Computer Science offers. We also study the social consequences of the uses and abuses of computing technologies for the wider world, and provide opportunities to discuss issues such as cyber-security, fake news and applications of Artificial Intelligence.
Who is eligible?
We require students to have at least a Grade 6 in Computer Science GCSE to study this course. For those that have not had a chance to study this in another school we require at least a Grade 6 in maths and some experience of coding in Python.
Qualification Type: A Level (2 year)
Specification: Year 2026/2028 Advanced Level Award Examination Board: AQA 7517
Paper 1:
• Fundamentals of programming
• Fundamentals of data structures
• Fundamentals of algorithms
• Theory of computation
• Fundamentals of functional programming
• Systematic approach to problem solving
Paper 2:
• Fundamentals of data representation
• Fundamentals of computer systems
• Fundamentals of computer organisation and architecture
• Consequences of uses of computing
• Fundamentals of communication and networking
• Fundamentals of databases
• Big Data
• Fundamentals of functional programming
Students choose their own project in the non-exam assessment. These have included: animations to simulate scientific concepts, building a social networking platform, route planning apps and using Artificial Intelligence to predict sports results. Computer Science provides transferrable skills in analysis and project management that are appreciated in any career
Paper 1 Assessment: On-screen exam, 2 hours 30 minutes, 40% of A-level.
Students answer a series of short questions and write/adapt/extend programs in an electronic answer document provided by AQA.
Paper 2 Assessment: Written exam, 2 hours 30 minutes, 40% of A-level, Compulsory short-answer and extended-answer questions.
Non-exam assessment: 75 marks, 20% of A-level. Students will be expected to follow a systematic approach to solve or investigate a practical problem of their own choice.
Computer Science provides transferrable skills in analysis and project management that are appreciated in any career. There are skill shortages in all areas of computing in the UK and globally, with employers’ particularly welcoming female applicants. The course provides an excellent platform for those continuing with a Computer Science related degree at university, embarking on a digital technology apprenticeship or wanting to pursue a career in IT.
This course is commonly studied with:
s an A-Level subject, Computer Science complements several other A-Level courses, including maths, physics and design technology.
Future Careers:
Computer Science can lead to a wide variety of careers including Data Scientist, Cyber Security specialist, Web developer, Programmer, App Developer, Artificial Intelligence specialist, Games designer and developer, Network engineer, Technician, Systems Analyst.
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