A-Level Computer Science 

Why study this course?

Computer Science is one of the fastest growing academic disciplines. Part science, part creative and part humanities, it is theoretical, practical and challenging.

The two year A Level course will extend your knowledge and understanding of programming in Python, take a deeper dive into how computers work and further develop your understanding of the impact computing has had and will have in the future and  how they influence societies and individuals.

What level of prior knowledge, attainment and skills are required?

While the A Level course is a stand-alone course, a 7 or above at GCSE or considerable experience of planning, implementing and testing computer code are highly recommended:

• Required:
• - Maths: Level 7
• Recommended:
• - Computer Science: 7
• - Experience coding in Python or another High-Level Language

A Level computer science would suit students who were either:

• considering reading Computer Science, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence or some other course where a foundation in coding and how computers work will support their application
• considering reading engineering, sciences, medicine or any other course that is using computers and technology in a transformational way...

What does the course cover and how is it structured?

How is the course assessed?

Paper 1: This paper tests a student's ability to program, as well as their theoretical knowledge of computer science

• On-Screen Exam (2h 30m)
• 40% of A Level

Paper 2: This paper tests a student's ability to answer questions from subject content listed above.

• Written Exam (2h 30m)
• 40% of A Level

How can families help?

• Visit Bletchley Park
  Learn about computing and encryption at the home of the WWII codebreakers
• Checkout the AQA Computer Science Specification
  Download and review the AQA Computer Science Specification.
• Sign Up to Sololearn and complete the Python 3 Tutorial.
  Get to grips with the basics of Python programming