A Level Computer Science

Computer Science is a practical subject where students can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real-world systems. It’s an intensely creative subject that combines invention and excitement, and can look at the natural world through a digital prism.

The aims of this qualification are to enable learners to develop:

●  An understanding and ability to apply the fundamental principles and concepts of

computer science, including: abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation.

●  The ability to analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems, including writing programs to do so. Students will primarily use Python and JavaScript to do this.

●  The capacity to think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically.

●  The capacity to see relationships between different aspects of computer science.

●  Mathematical skills
Greater Manchester has a vital and growing IT and Digital industries sector with key developments such as Media City that are driving job creation. There are more opportunities than ever within the field of Computing, and to develop an exciting and potentially prosperous career. The field of Computing is constantly evolving – new developments in I.T. infrastructure in retail, manufacturing, business systems and the web means that there will always be the demand for well qualified and experienced I.T. professionals.

The course is taught by expert teaching staff with a wide range of industrial experience. Learning in a state of the art dedicated classroom, learners will use industry standard hardware and software and have access to extensive VLE with resources and online submission.
You will need to meet Clarendon Sixth Form’s general entry requirements for A level study of five grade 4-9 GCSEs, as well as the additional requirement of a grade 5 in GCSE Mathematics.
At the end of your second year of study, you will sit two exams:

Paper 1: Computer Systems (40%)

Paper 2: Algorithms and Programming (40%)

You will also complete a programming project which is worth the final 20% of your A level grade.
Studying A Level Computer Science opens the door to a wide range of exciting pathways. Many students go on to study computing, software engineering, artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, or games development at university. Others choose degree apprenticeships or straight-to-industry routes in IT, coding, web development, or tech support roles.

Computer science is also a powerful subject when combined with maths, science, or creative subjects, and is highly valued across sectors such as finance, healthcare, education, and entertainment.

With digital skills in high demand, A Level Computer Science is the first step into a future-proof career in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries.

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