Computer Science
Key Stage 3
How many computers are nearby you at the moment? Computers can now be found in a wide range devices and machines used at home and in the workplace– how will Computing impact your future career?
We aim to develop skills that will help students live, learn and work in a digital society. This includes working with data, problem solving and communicating as well as being responsible digital citizens
KS3 pupils learn the fundamentals of Computer Science through problem solving and programming concepts and apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems.
Key Stage 4
Why study Computer Science?
Every student should have the opportunity to learn computer science. It helps nurture problem-solving skills, logic and creativity.
Computing is changing the world around us. Our aim has always been to develop confident computer use and to encourage innovation in a stimulating classroom environment. Pupils aspiring to careers in all subjects need computational thinking skills and a practical knowledge of computer systems to succeed in the modern workplace.
Introduction
Outcomes in Computer Science are outstanding with students achieving significantly higher grades than the national average. This course is well suited to those students who enjoy problem solving and will give students the skills necessary for further study in a large number of areas.
What will it be like?
Students will expand their knowledge of computational thinking, problem solving, code tracing and applied computing. You will learn how to problem solve, and work on real world computing problems that can be solved through programming
Assessment
We follow the AQA GCSE Computer Science syllabus. Students will have 2 exams at the end of year 11. Each exam is 1 hour and 30 mins and each is worth 40% of the total mark. The exams will test both years of the course. The other 20% will be assessed through Non-Exam Assessment which will assess practical problem solving and programming skills
Key Stage 5
A-Level Computer Science does not require students to previously study Computer Science GCSE however it is beneficial to have had some experience of programming and an understanding of computers, this could be through a hobby or general interest in computers. A-Level Computer Science covers the theoretical aspects of Computing as well as a large focus on practical problem-solving skills. There is an element of free choice with the final assessed project in which students develop a solution to a real-world problem through a computer program. This aspect brings together a good understanding of computing as well as linking to other subjects.
This course prepares students for further study in Computer Science as well as many other areas including Engineering, Maths, Physics and more.