'Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick. Don’t lose faith'.  Steve Jobs

What do we Study?

The A Level Computer Science qualification helps students understand the core academic principles of computer science. By studying Computer Science at advanced level, you will learn to master how to program using a variety of different structures and languages. You will be able to understand how a computer works, how the Internet is constructed and a range of principles for organising data, such as ‘big data’. In today’s world, where Technology is constantly changing, technological and information literacy skills are as essential as literacy and numeracy.  As part of the course you reflect on the ethical, cultural and social issues involved in modern computing.

As a Computer Science student, you will develop the ability to work independently and as part of a team, as well as set and manage your progressing deadlines.  You will also learn to conduct research, evaluate information and develop written work that is correctly structured and uses formal referencing.  Intellectual curiosity and creative thinking are equally important in the study of computer science at A Level. The ideal Computer Science student will be able to take an idea and develop it beyond the classroom, pushing the boundaries of the curriculum.  Technical skills are as important as written skills. 

The course consists of three units:

• Computer systems
• Algorithms and programming
• Programming project (Coursework

Beyond the Classroom

Computer Science students often volunteer as ‘e-safety ambassadors’, helping younger students use the Internet safely, and participate in other clubs and activities.

Computer Science students will visit a range of organisations to research the role and impact of Technology in different industry sectors. Students will have the opportunity to listen to guest speakers. Computer Science students are encouraged to join the British Computer Society, giving access to industry related events, lectures and workshops.

Where it might lead

As a Computer Science student, you will develop invaluable skills that can be applied across a broad range of roles and activities.  You will develop the ability to work independently and as part of a team, as well as set and manage your progressing deadlines.   You will learn to conduct research, evaluate information and develop written work that is correctly structured and uses formal referencing.  You will need intellectual curiosity and creative thinking.   The ideal Computer Science student will be able to take an idea and develop it beyond the classroom, pushing the boundaries of the curriculum.  Technical skills are as important as written skills.

Many students go onto study Computer Science at University, a degree that highly valued and in great demand. Other courses of note include Games Programming at Bournemouth University and BEng in Computing at Imperial College London.