Computer Science - A Level

Students will study:

• Programming and problem-solving using a high-level programming language
• How to design, write, test and improve computer programs
• Algorithms and how computers use them to solve problems efficiently
• Data structures and how information is stored and organised
• How computers represent data, including numbers, text, images and sound
• Computer systems, including hardware, software, processors and memory
• Networks, communication and the internet
• Databases and the use of large-scale data
• Different approaches to programming, including object-oriented and functional programming
• The ethical, legal, moral and social impact of computer science
• An independent programming project where students create a solution to a real problem

This reflects the AQA A Level Computer Science content, which includes programming, algorithms, data representation, systems, networking, databases, Big Data, functional programming and a practical project.

Paper 1: 40% of A Level. Tests programming, data structures, algorithms, and theory of computation. Assessed via an on-screen exam (2 hours 30 minutes).

Paper 2: 40% of A Level. Tests data representation, computer systems, architecture, communication, networking, databases, Big Data, and functional programming. Assessed via a written exam (2 hours 30 minutes).

Non-exam assessment (Project): 20% of A Level. A programming project where you decide on a problem to solve and complete the full development lifecycle.

• A minimum of a grade 6 in GCSE Maths.

• Grade 6 in GCSE Computer Science, ICT, or similar.

• For those without prior programming experience, an introductory workbook is available to complete over the summer.

Students have the opportunity to take part in a range of activities beyond the classroom, such as:

• Coding clubs and programming challenges
• National and international computing competitions
• Cybersecurity challenges and capture-the-flag activities
• Robotics and engineering projects
• Artificial intelligence and machine learning workshops
• Student digital leadership opportunities
• App, website or game development projects
• Links with universities, employers and industry speakers
• Trips, talks and enrichment activities linked to technology and innovation
• Support with personal projects for portfolios, university applications and apprenticeships

• Complements a range of other subjects, particularly Maths and the Sciences.

• Provides a foundation for Computer Science degrees (note: A Level Maths is often a compulsory requirement for these at university).

• Develops transferable skills such as problem-solving and logical thinking.

A Level Computer Science supports progression to a wide range of university courses and higher or degree apprenticeships, including:

• Computer Science
• Software Engineering
• Artificial Intelligence
• Cybersecurity
• Data Science
• Robotics
• Games Development
• Digital Technology Solutions
• Network Engineering
• Systems Analysis
• Engineering
• Mathematics
• Finance and FinTech

It is also a strong option for students interested in degree apprenticeships with technology companies, financial institutions, engineering firms, cybersecurity organisations and digital consultancies.

An A Level in Computer Science can lead to the following careers:

• Computer Science
• Software Engineering
• Artificial Intelligence
• Cybersecurity
• Data Science
• Robotics
• Games Development
• Engineering
• Finance and FinTech
• Digital Technology
• Network Engineering
• Systems Analysis
• App and Web Development
• Digital Product Design

The course also develops transferable skills such as problem-solving, logical thinking, programming, resilience and project management, which are valued across many university courses and career pathways.