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Computer Science

Overview

Computer Science is the study of how Computer Systems work, looking at everything from the physical components to the logical structures and the software that makes them usable. You will learn how code is interpreted and executed and how computers and humans interact and communicate with each other.

Entry requirements

In 2025, the entry requirements are 6 or above in GCSE Maths and 5 or above in GCSE Computer Science or show genuine interest and recent coding practice.

Learning & Assessment

Why study this subject?

If you are interested in how a computer works, and applying logical problem solving skills to practical problems in the digital world, then computer science is the subject for you. By learning how software is developed, how hardware functions, and the ways in which hardware and software interact you will gain a deeper understanding of both the power and limitations of computer systems.

What can you expect from this A level?

The course is delivered as a mix of theory and practical activity with exam-style practice embedded from the very start. Individual and group work tasks will be utilised throughout the course. A minimum of 30% of your contact time is dedicated to specifically developing programming skills and this supports the coursework element.

What can you do with a qualification in this subject?

The subject can lead to degrees in Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, Games Development, and Information Systems.

It also offers a wide range of specialist career opportunities, including roles such as Cybersecurity Analyst, Database Engineer, Systems Developer, UX Designer, Network Analyst, Web Engineer, Mobile Computing Engineer, and Quality Assurance Tester.

Assessment

The assessment comprises 80% exams and 20% coursework. The exams include two papers:

Paper 1 focuses on Computer Systems.

Paper 2 on Algorithms and Programming.

The coursework involves developing a piece of software entirely by the student, and you will be supported throughout the course in this part of your study.

Modules / Topics

Module 1

Computer Systems.

Module 2

Algorithms and Programming.

Module 3

Programming Project.

Module 4

Global Business.

Trips / Visits / Enrichment

Enrichment
Cryptography
IBM Skills Builder
Maths & Computers

Filip Sidzinka

Year 12 Student

"My favourite subject is Computer Science. I've always been interested in computers so being able to learn about them in more detail and learning to code has been very interesting. I especially enjoy creating games and brute-forcing math problems via code. Also because my other subjects contain mechanics."

Software Developer

Develop and evaluate software applications, write clean, efficient code, and ensure the software meets user needs and specifications.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather requirements, enhance features, and troubleshoot issues in ongoing projects.

Systems Analyst

Analyse and troubleshoot complex hardware and software issues, providing solutions to enhance overall system performance.
Document system requirements and create detailed project plans for technology upgrades or implementations.

Web Developer

Design and build user-friendly websites, ensuring optimal functionality and responsiveness across different devices and browsers.
Collaborate with graphic designers to integrate visual elements and improve user experience through testing and iteration.

Data Analyst

Examine and analyse large datasets to identify trends, patterns, and insights that can inform business decisions and strategies.
Utilise data visualisation tools to present findings to stakeholders, helping to guide marketing and operational efforts.

IT Project Manager

Oversee IT projects, managing timelines, budgets, and resources while coordinating with team members to ensure project goals are met.
Liaise with senior management to determine the scope of developing digital products or services, providing status updates and project reports.

Quality Assurance Tester

Perform systematic testing of software applications to identify bugs and ensure functionality meets established requirements.
Document test cases, report defects, and collaborate with developers to verify that fixes are implemented effectively.

Cybersecurity Specialist

Monitor network security and perform vulnerability assessments to identify and mitigate potential threats to digital systems.
Develop and implement security policies and protocols to protect sensitive information and ensure compliance with regulations.

User Experience (UX) Designer

Conduct user research and usability testing to gather feedback on digital products, using insights to inform design improvements.
Create wireframes, prototypes, and design specifications to guide the development of intuitive user interfaces.

November Open Evening 2026

Wednesday 4th November 2026
4:30pm - 7:00pm

Find out more

Open Evening - 2nd December 2026

Wednesday 2nd December 2026
4:30pm - 7:00pm

Find out more

16 October 2026

Up and Running - Enrichment Success

This first half term for our Year 12 students has been the most successful ever for our Enrichment programme, which takes places on Tuesday afternoons. With a range of activities covering skills development, social, physical and practical extra curricular, we have over 700 students participating in 42 activities. Ranging from British Sign Language and IBM Cyber Security to Music and Film Production and even Dungeons and Dragons, these weekly sessions are an important part of our ASPIRE programme, and develop the community and ambition of our students in their first couple of weeks as part of NSFC. A major success this year has been our running club, which builds on our sponsorship of the Great North 10k and Great North 5k runs, which happened over the Summer, and saw over 400 participants from across our colleges. The group meet weekly and have both a competitive 5k run, and a less challenging run for those who simply want to get out and get some exercise. Led by Director of Curriculum Kate Gardner, this is a great example of our students engaging in physical activities and working together as a college community. Our first student experience survey illustrated the huge success of a range of our wider enrichments with great reviews of ‘A Taste of China’ for Chinese language beginners, ‘Performance Lab’ where students prepare a Christmas showcase and Film Production which is hosted and managed by a professional production company Digital Sidekick and builds real industry leading skills.

15 October 2026

'Unloc'king our Real Potential - Student Governor Event

A selected group of students, attended a one day conference and selection event to find our new Student Governor, hosted by Unloc, a youth organisation dedicated to empowering young people with programmes designed to develop skills and experience in developing leaders and the student voice. Nadine Dosky, Lauren Dudley, Yasemin Aysa Yildiz and Niamh Richardson attended the event as part of the NSFC group and engaged amazingly throughout the day, gaining valuable experience and eventually selecting Nadine as our next Student Governor for the academic year 2026-2027. The NCG Prospective Student Governors Event was a practical and creative hybrid day that explored the key skills needed for student leadership and representation, with sessions including, ‘being a changemaker,’ ‘creating your pitches’ and ‘selecting your new governors.’ The small group of students from NSFC really benefitted from the activity led by Ben and Kellie from Unloc, and were really grateful to have been selected as potential leaders from among our fabulous students at the sixth form.

9 October 2026

Ready to Aspire

The students at Newcastle Sixth Form College are taking on a new vision for our college community, with the acronym ASPIRE, to help them succeed and really enjoy their A Level experience.

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Your courses

Computer Science

Overview

Entry requirements