Computer Science

Entry Requirements:

Minimum entry requirements for all A Level courses are minimum of 8 GCSE subjects, with an average grade of 6 (legacy grade B) or above; including at least a grade 6 or above in GCSE English Language (or Literature) and GCSE mathematics and a grade 6 or above in GCSE Science.

In addition, to study this subject you must have a grade 5 or above in mathematics and English Language. 6 or above in GCSE Information Technology/BTEC equivalent at distinction.

Overview:

Computer Science is a practical subject where students can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real-world systems. It’s an intensely creative subject that combines invention and excitement, and can look at the natural world through a digital prism.

The aims of this qualification are to enable learners to develop:

An understanding and ability to apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including: abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation

• The ability to analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems, including writing programs to do so
• The capacity to think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically
• The capacity to see relationships between different aspects of computer science
• Mathematical skills.

Year 1 and 2 units:

1. Unit name:             Unit 1 – Component 1
Unit Title:                   Computing principles
Exam Type:                Written paper – 1 hour and 15 minutes
Marks:                        140 marks 40% of A level

2. Unit name:             Unit 2 – Component 2
Unit Title:                   Algorithms and problem solving
Exam Type:                Written paper – 1 hour and 15 minutes
Marks:                        140 marks 40% of A level

3. Unit name:             Unit 3* or 4** – Component 3 or 4
Unit Title:                   Programming project
Exam Type:                Written paper – 1 hour and 15 minutes
Marks:                        70 marks 20% of A level

* Indicates synoptic assessment

** Learners who are re-taking the qualification may carry forward their mark for the non exam assessment component (04).

Overview:

BTEC Level 3 is a triple award course consisting of a combination of Foundation Diploma in Computing (510 guided learning hours) and Foundation Diploma in Information Technology (510 guided learning hours), spread over two years. The full course is equivalent to 3 A-levels.

Year 12

BTEC Nationals Level 3 Foundation Diploma in IT (510GLH)

Year 13

BTEC Nationals Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Computing (510GLH)