Computer Studies / Computing
Cheshire College - South & West - Cheshire East
01270654654
Dane Bank Avenue, Crewe, CW2 8AB
Course summary

A-Level Computer Science delves into the technical side of computing and software development. It is designed to provide a detailed technical understanding of computing's theoretical, mathematical, and practical aspects. A-Level Computer Science is a two-year course. The first year has two distinct sections. In the first section, the fundamentals of software development including programming and data structures are studied. This unit is designed to develop your computational thinking and is assessed through a combination of exam questions and a programming test in an on-screen exam. The second section covers a wide range of supporting technical knowledge including different representations and calculations of numbers, encryption, logic, system software, and networking, and a section on the moral, ethical, and legal consequences of using computers.

Entry requirements

Typically you will need 5 GCSEs, including two at grade 5/B (or above) and three at grade 4/C (or above) including maths and English. Grade 5 in Maths or Computer Science.

How you'll be assessed

This is assessed through a written exam. In the second year, the syllabus develops your understanding of these sections further introduces algorithms, and the idea of big data, and develops your knowledge of database systems. A-Level Computer Science is assessed through: • An on-screen exam to test your understanding of programming fundamentals. • A written exam covering the technical and mathematical sections. • An individual project worth 20% of the A2 course. The individual project develops your understanding of the systems development lifecycle whilst giving you some scope for developing your programming interests.

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionNorth West
Local AuthorityCheshire East
Ofsted RatingGood
Gender TypeCo-Educational
AddressDane Bank Avenue, Crewe, CW2 8AB