A-Level Computer Science

Advances in computing are transforming the way we work, and the A-level in Computer Science offers students a qualification that is relevant to the modern and changing world of computing and offers strong foundations for future higher education study or apprenticeships. The A-Level offers both theoretical and practical exposure to Computer Science and enables students to apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to realworld systems. Building on the GCSE the course values computational thinking, helping students to develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand the power and limits of human and machine intelligence. It is designed to inspire and challenge students to apply the knowledge they gain with the creative and technical skills they acquire. There is an expanded Maths focus, much of which is embedded within the course and an increased emphasis on coding and programming in different programming languages widening students’ skill set.

There are two exams (one written, one computerised), both worth 40% of the overall grade and a coursework unit that covers the additional 20%

Paper 1 – On-screen exam: 2 hours 30 minutes worth 40%

This exam tests a student’s ability to program, as well as their theoretical knowledge of Computer

Science.

• Fundamentals of programming

• Fundamentals of data structures

• Fundamentals of algorithms

• Theory of computation

Paper 2 - Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes worth 40%

This exam tests a student’s ability to answer knowledge and theory-based questions for the

following topics:

• Fundamentals of data representation

• Fundamentals of computer systems

• Fundamentals of computer organisation and architecture

• Consequences of uses of computing

• Fundamentals of communication and networking

• Fundamentals of databases

• Big Data

• Fundamentals of functional programming

Non-examined assessment (NEA) 75 marks worth 20%

This practical project assesses student’s ability to use the knowledge and skills gained through the course to solve or investigate a practical problem. Students will be expected to follow a systematic approach to problem solving, exposing them to experience in software development.

Students must have achieved five strong passes (at least Grade 5) at GCSE level, including English Language and Maths, it is preferred that the student has studied Computer Science GCSE, and achieved at least a Grade 5; however, we will consider applications from students who have a strong set of GCSE grades who have not studied computer science GCSE.

The Computing department have an excellent track record in supporting students with their future careers in computing. Students are offered support with applications and practice interviews as well as mentoring from their teachers. The computing and IT sector is incredibly important in St Neots and the wider Cambridgeshire area and the Computing teachers maximise the students opportunities through their links with local businesses.

Achieving this A-Level in conjunction with other STEM based A-Levels will provide several progression options.

These include:

Level 3 or 4 Apprenticeship in:

Software Development Technician, Digital Media and Marketing, Networking, Cyber Security etc

Higher level study:

Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ). They are qualifications at levels 4 and 5 and prepare you for occupations at these levels.

Degree programmes:

Computer science, Information systems, Software engineering, Games Design