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Computer Science

Overview

Understanding different aspects of computing is one of the most necessary skills for young people to gain in our century. In studying Computer Science, you will develop the capacity to think creatively, innovatively, logically and critically.

Entry Requirements

Students will need GCSE Maths at least grade 6.

Learning & Assessment

Modules / Topics

Computer Systems (01)

  • Structure and function of the processor and processor performance
  • Systems software, applications software and software development
  • Compression, encryption and hashing
  • Databases
  • Networks
  • Web technologies
  • Data types, Boolean algebra and data structures
  • Legal, moral, social, cultural and ethical issues

Algorithms and Programming (02)

  • Computational thinking
  • Problem solving and programming
  • Standard algorithms

Programming Project (03)

  • Analysis, design, development, testing and evaluation of a suitable computer science project; developed using a range of technologies and an object oriented, iterative approach

Trips / Visits / Enrichment

Previous students have participated in the Cyber Discovery competition.

Assessment

Assessment in computer science is done in a number of ways, including homework, in class activities and worksheets, team work and presentations.

There will be two exams at the end of your second year:

  • Computer systems - 2 hours 30 minutes, 40% of A Level
  • Algorithms and programming - 2 hours 30 minutes, 40% of A Level

You will also be assessed on the Programming Project - 20% of A Level

What do our students say?

 
 
 
I chose NSFC over my school becasue I knew that in a Sixth Form College I would be able to be myself, and enjoy all the benefits of a purely A level based campus.
 
 
 
Adam Steel , Computer Science
Read Adam Steel's Story  

OCR AS and A level Computer Science PM Heathcote, RSU Heathcote

W3C Schools – programming tutorials (web programming focus)

Khan Academy – JavaScript, HTML, CSS and SQL tutorials

Experts in computer science and programming are becoming more sought after year on year. Opportunities could include working within software and computer services companies.

Future career opportunities include:

  • Database administrator
  • Games developer
  • Information systems manager
  • IT consultant/educator
  • Interface design
  • Mobile computing
  • Multimedia programmer
  • Network engineer
  • Systems analyst
  • Systems developer
  • Quality Assurance (System Testing).

Think Computer Science is right for you?

Apply Online