Computer Science is ubiquitous. It permeates every aspect of our lives, yet this was not predicted 40 years ago. The future is already here, as we read this AI, big data, cyber security, machine learning and quantum computing are having great effects on the lives of billions. It is one of the few fields today where individuals who have a brilliant idea and, crucially, the skills to develop them, can have a real impact. Today’s generation of Computer Scientists will be shaping all our futures in the years to come. Pupils will learn to write robust and elegant code based around the permanent core programming concepts found in all programming languages. This enhances not just their knowledge but also practical problem solving, initiative, creativity, lateral thinking and problem decomposition. It is also great fun and something that, whilst challenging, pupils thrive on. We will be developing using Python with the Pycharm IDE, a professional, but user friendly, development environment. In the first year, we move fast, quickly covering the basics of programming, then move onto advanced concepts like Object Orientation, as well as the theory behind computation. We look into: how to solve problems; data representation in the computer, including encryption; computer systems architecture; computer communication and networking. This makes for a really interesting mixture of theory and practice. In the second year, we extend our studies into many exciting areas such as: big data; web systems and wireless networking. This is in conjunction with looking at the theory of computation in much greater depth. The A Level project is an exciting opportunity for pupils to write a really challenging and substantial program in a domain of their choosing. Whilst this is a significant commitment, it is a really excellent opportunity to be truly creative and independent. It provides the pupils with plenty to discuss at interview.
Places are offered subject to candidates' achieving a minimum of 42 grade points on the best seven GCSEs including English and Maths. Normally we would expect at least a grade 7 (or an A grade) in each subject to be studied in the Lower Sixth and at least a 6 (or a B grade) in English and Maths. Ideally you will have taken Computer Science at IGCSE or GCSE. If you haven’t done an official course, but have taught yourself the basics of programming, then you will also cope well. If you have no experience, but real drive then you are advised to spend time in the Summer learning to program in Python. An indication of future success would be your Computer Science or your Mathematics I/GCSE grade, and a grade B, at least, would indicate that you are able to cope with the content of the course.
• Paper 1 40% of A Level 2½ hours - on-screen live programming exam and questions. • Paper 2 40% of A Level 2½ hours - short to medium length questions. • Non-exam Assessment 20% of A Level – pupil developed project.
About Education Provider
| Region | South West |
| Local Authority | Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole |
| Ofsted Rating | |
| Gender Type | Co-Educational |
| ISI Report | View Report |
| Boarding Fee | Day £35,871; Boarding £47,340 |
| Sixth Form Fee | Unknown |
| Address | Canford Magna, Wimborne, BH21 3AD |
Computer Science is ubiquitous. It permeates every aspect of our lives, yet this was not predicted 40 years ago. The future is already here, as we read this AI, big data, cyber security, machine learning and quantum computing are having great effects on the lives of billions. It is one of the few fields today where individuals who have a brilliant idea and, crucially, the skills to develop them, can have a real impact. Today’s generation of Computer Scientists will be shaping all our futures in the years to come. Pupils will learn to write robust and elegant code based around the permanent core programming concepts found in all programming languages. This enhances not just their knowledge but also practical problem solving, initiative, creativity, lateral thinking and problem decomposition. It is also great fun and something that, whilst challenging, pupils thrive on. We will be developing using Python with the Pycharm IDE, a professional, but user friendly, development environment. In the first year, we move fast, quickly covering the basics of programming, then move onto advanced concepts like Object Orientation, as well as the theory behind computation. We look into: how to solve problems; data representation in the computer, including encryption; computer systems architecture; computer communication and networking. This makes for a really interesting mixture of theory and practice. In the second year, we extend our studies into many exciting areas such as: big data; web systems and wireless networking. This is in conjunction with looking at the theory of computation in much greater depth. The A Level project is an exciting opportunity for pupils to write a really challenging and substantial program in a domain of their choosing. Whilst this is a significant commitment, it is a really excellent opportunity to be truly creative and independent. It provides the pupils with plenty to discuss at interview.
Places are offered subject to candidates' achieving a minimum of 42 grade points on the best seven GCSEs including English and Maths. Normally we would expect at least a grade 7 (or an A grade) in each subject to be studied in the Lower Sixth and at least a 6 (or a B grade) in English and Maths. Ideally you will have taken Computer Science at IGCSE or GCSE. If you haven’t done an official course, but have taught yourself the basics of programming, then you will also cope well. If you have no experience, but real drive then you are advised to spend time in the Summer learning to program in Python. An indication of future success would be your Computer Science or your Mathematics I/GCSE grade, and a grade B, at least, would indicate that you are able to cope with the content of the course.
• Paper 1 40% of A Level 2½ hours - on-screen live programming exam and questions. • Paper 2 40% of A Level 2½ hours - short to medium length questions. • Non-exam Assessment 20% of A Level – pupil developed project.