Computer Science

In this increasingly technological age, a study of computer science, and particularly how computers are used in the solution of a variety of problems, is not only valuable to the learners but also essential to the future well-being of the country. Computers are widely used in all aspects of business, industry, government, education, leisure and the home.

Learning core: 

The course encourages learners to develop:

• an understanding of, and the 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
• the capacity for thinking creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically
• the capacity to see relationships between different aspects of computer science
• mathematical skills
• the ability to articulate the individual (moral), social (ethical), legal and cultural opportunities and risks of digital technology.

*The exact course content is subject to change

Main qualification:

• AS Unit 1 – Fundamentals of Computer Science
  • This unit investigates computer architecture, communication, data representation, data structures, software applications, programs, algorithms, logic, programming methodologies and the impact of computer science on society.
• AS Unit 2 – Practical Programming to Solve Problems
  • This unit consists of a series of set tasks completed on-screen by candidates.These tasks will assess the practical application of knowledge and understanding and will require the use of Visual Basic.NET, Python or Java as a programming language.
• A2 Unit 3 – Programming and System Development
  • This unit investigates programs, data structures, algorithms, logic, programming methodologies and the impact of computer science on society.
• A2 Unit 4 – Computer Architecture, Data, Communication and Applications
  • This unit investigates computer architecture, communication, data representation, organisation and structure of data, programs, algorithms and software applications.
• A2 Unit 5 – Programmed Solution to a Problem
  • Candidates discuss, investigate, design, prototype, refine and implement, test and evaluate a computerised solution to a problem chosen by the candidate which must be solved using original code (programming).
  • This is a substantial piece of work, undertaken over an extended period of time.
• Essential skills (embedded in main programme)
• Weekly tutorials

Assessment:

• Project Based
• Written Examination
• Computer Based Examination

Entry requirements: 

• Five GCSEs at grade C or above (may include 1 relevant equivalent) to include: – English Language or First Language Welsh, Maths and/or Science dependent upon the AS subjects chosen. Additionally, learners will be required to have a minimum GCSE grade B in the subject or related subject
• Must include GCSE English Language grade B and GCSE Maths grade B
• Each application considered on individual merit
• Entry is subject to interview

Equipment: 

• Recommended text book
• Stationary approximately – £30

Fees:

• Full-time – no course fees
• For further information on grants and funds available – click here
• Administration fee (full-time) – £20 per student per year
• Transport fees for over 19’s – click here
• Please note that there may be a cost for trips for this course

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