Computer Science A Level is the science of how computers work and therefore the course covers both the practical and theoretical sides of computing. Problem solving and innovation are at the heart of the Computer Science A Level and form the basis of how we learn to create programs and develop algorithms. The theoretical side of the course looks at the inner workings of a computer and you will study data representation as well as look at components such as the CPU, RAM, and internal registers. 50% of the final examination covers the theory element of the course; you will find it helpful if you are already familiar with a programming language for the other 50%. A large portion of the course is programming-based. A key part of the A Level is object-oriented programming, a common approach to programming in business and commercial situations. The course promotes good programming practices such as modularisation, sensible naming conventions, proper commenting, and much more. As you learn how to program you will learn the relevant computer architecture, such as how computers store and represent different data types, including images, videos, and sounds. You will also learn about networking protocols, and study the moral, ethical, legal, and cultural issues and opportunities surrounding computers.
There is a minimum entry requirement of five GCSEs at Grade 4 and above. Grade 6 in GCSE Maths (Higher Level). Grade 4 in GCSE English Language and if taken, Grade 4 in GCSE Computer Science.
The course is assessed through two exams worth 40% each, and a coursework project worth 20%, called a Non-Exam Assessment (NEA). The first exam is sat on a computer and will test both practical programming skills and your knowledge of theory. The second paper is a traditional exam testing your theoretical knowledge of computer systems, how they are formed, communicated, and so on. This paper includes extended writing in the form of full essay responses. The coursework project is a programming project, requiring a full write-up which must include analysis of a problem and documentation of the design, testing, and evaluation processes. The project is started part way through the first year after students have had a chance to gain the necessary programming skills.
About Education Provider
| Region | South East |
| Local Authority | Surrey |
| Ofsted Rating | Outstanding |
| Gender Type | Co-Educational |
| Address | Weston Green Road, Thames Ditton, KT7 0JB |
Computer Science A Level is the science of how computers work and therefore the course covers both the practical and theoretical sides of computing. Problem solving and innovation are at the heart of the Computer Science A Level and form the basis of how we learn to create programs and develop algorithms. The theoretical side of the course looks at the inner workings of a computer and you will study data representation as well as look at components such as the CPU, RAM, and internal registers. 50% of the final examination covers the theory element of the course; you will find it helpful if you are already familiar with a programming language for the other 50%. A large portion of the course is programming-based. A key part of the A Level is object-oriented programming, a common approach to programming in business and commercial situations. The course promotes good programming practices such as modularisation, sensible naming conventions, proper commenting, and much more. As you learn how to program you will learn the relevant computer architecture, such as how computers store and represent different data types, including images, videos, and sounds. You will also learn about networking protocols, and study the moral, ethical, legal, and cultural issues and opportunities surrounding computers.
There is a minimum entry requirement of five GCSEs at Grade 4 and above. Grade 6 in GCSE Maths (Higher Level). Grade 4 in GCSE English Language and if taken, Grade 4 in GCSE Computer Science.
The course is assessed through two exams worth 40% each, and a coursework project worth 20%, called a Non-Exam Assessment (NEA). The first exam is sat on a computer and will test both practical programming skills and your knowledge of theory. The second paper is a traditional exam testing your theoretical knowledge of computer systems, how they are formed, communicated, and so on. This paper includes extended writing in the form of full essay responses. The coursework project is a programming project, requiring a full write-up which must include analysis of a problem and documentation of the design, testing, and evaluation processes. The project is started part way through the first year after students have had a chance to gain the necessary programming skills.