Computer Science is the study of computers and computational systems, and is both theoretical and practical, involving technical analysis, planning, programming and testing. Students will develop the ability to model and analyse problems, and to make use of the theory to design solutions. Computer Science has a strong mathematical underpinning, and the problem solving inherent in this course requires precision, careful reasoning and creativity.
Students are not expected to have studied Computing at GCSE or have any prior experience of programming although a basic exposure to this would be beneficial. More important is that students have the ability to think logically and systematically; to this end a grade 7 in GCSE Mathematics is strongly recommended.
Assessment is by two 2-hour 30-minute exams and a practical project. Unit 1 (40% of A Level) This on-screen exam tests students’ abilities to program, as well as their theoretical knowledge of computer science from topics 1–4 together with elements of topic 13. The exam consists of short questions as well as an exercise to write, adapt and extend programs. Unit 2 (40% of A Level) This written exam tests students’ abilities to answer questions from topics 5–12. It consists of short answer and extended answer questions. Unit 3: Practical Project (20% of A Level) This task assesses students’ abilities to use the knowledge and skills gained through the course to solve a practical problem. Students will be expected to follow a systematic approach to problem solving as explored in topic 13.
About Education Provider
| Region | South East |
| Local Authority | West Sussex |
| Ofsted Rating | |
| Gender Type | Co-Educational |
| ISI Report | View Report |
| Boarding Fee | £34,440 - £44,550 |
| Sixth Form Fee | £30,450 |
| Address | Lancing, BN15 0RW |
Computer Science is the study of computers and computational systems, and is both theoretical and practical, involving technical analysis, planning, programming and testing. Students will develop the ability to model and analyse problems, and to make use of the theory to design solutions. Computer Science has a strong mathematical underpinning, and the problem solving inherent in this course requires precision, careful reasoning and creativity.
Students are not expected to have studied Computing at GCSE or have any prior experience of programming although a basic exposure to this would be beneficial. More important is that students have the ability to think logically and systematically; to this end a grade 7 in GCSE Mathematics is strongly recommended.
Assessment is by two 2-hour 30-minute exams and a practical project. Unit 1 (40% of A Level) This on-screen exam tests students’ abilities to program, as well as their theoretical knowledge of computer science from topics 1–4 together with elements of topic 13. The exam consists of short questions as well as an exercise to write, adapt and extend programs. Unit 2 (40% of A Level) This written exam tests students’ abilities to answer questions from topics 5–12. It consists of short answer and extended answer questions. Unit 3: Practical Project (20% of A Level) This task assesses students’ abilities to use the knowledge and skills gained through the course to solve a practical problem. Students will be expected to follow a systematic approach to problem solving as explored in topic 13.