Computer Studies / Computing

Course summary

Our A Level in Computer Science is a practical, relevant, and rigorous qualification. It is an intensely creative subject that combines programming, problem solving and invention. Our Computer Science qualification values computational thinking, helping you to develop the skills to solve real-world challenges, design systems and understand the power and limits of human and machine intelligence. Whilst developing practical programming skills you will engage in moral and ethical debate on topics such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and the internet. What you’ll learn: Year One ● Study contemporary systems architecture, databases, and networks. ● Characteristics of contemporary processors. ● Software development methodologies. ● How data is represented, stored, and exchanged between different systems. ● Explore programming techniques. Year Two ● Understand key standard algorithms such as insertion sort and binary search ● Develop computational thinking skills, write code, and learn about web technologies ● Coding, using advanced programming techniques. ● Merge sort, quick sort, A* and Dijkstra's algorithm will be explored The coursework project involves using your skills to develop a solution to a problem of your own choice. Most students produce a game or simulation. How you will learn: You will be delivered the course in a methodical and well-thought-out manner that allows you to best sequence the information. Lessons will be a mix of theory and practical coding challenges, depending on the topic. There are planned visits to university Computer Science departments during the course. Trips are also planned to the National Museum of Computing at Bletchley Park and the Science Museum in London.