A level Computer Science

There are a number of specific subject entry requirements, please visit our website to review the courses and entry requirements or alternatively please contact the Sixth Form for specific details.

*Please choose 3 subject courses from different blocks, you will automatically be added to Maths or English resit classes on enrolment if you do not achieve required 4 in Maths or English Lit/Lang but you must still meet requirements for entry per subject.

WHAT WILL I STUDY? The objective of this qualification is to give students the opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills in IT systems, systems management and social media in business. This will enable them to progress to further study in the IT sector or other sectors. The content of this A Level in Computer Science is divided into three components: • Computer systems component (01) contains the majority of the content of the specification and is assessed in a written paper recalling knowledge and understanding. • Algorithms and programming component (02) relates principally to problem solving skills needed by learners to apply the knowledge and understanding encountered in Component 01. • Programming project component (03 or 04) is a practical portfolio based assessment with a task that is chosen by the teacher or learner and is produced in an appropriate programming language of the learner's or teacher's choice.

WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY THIS COURSE? Students will need any 5 GCSEs at grade 5 or above or equivalent. It is not essential that the student will need a GCSE computer related qualification.

WHERE NEXT? At its heart lies the notion of computational thinking: a mode of thought that goes well beyond software and hardware, and that provides a framework within which to reason about systems and problems.” (CAS-Computer Science a Curriculum for Schools). This specification has been developed by the team that created the first GCSE Computing qualification in the UK. OCR Computer Science will above all else be relevant to the modern and changing world of computing. Computer Science is a practical subject where learners can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real world systems. It is an intensely creative subject that combines invention and excitement, and can look at the natural world through a digital prism. OCR's A Level in Computer Science will value computational thinking, helping learners to develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand the power and limits of human and machine intelligence. Learners will develop an ability to analyse, critically evaluate and make decisions. The project approach is a vital component of ‘post-school' life and is of particular relevance to Further Education, Higher Education and the workplace. Each learner is able to tailor their project to fit their individual needs, choices and aspirations.