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A Level Computer Science

Course Code

A Level

Course Type

A Level

Course Duration

2 Years

Location

Central Saint Michael's Sixth Form

Start Date

1 September, 2025

If you are interested in the technologies that shape the world and drive the pace of change, then Computer Science is the subject for you. Computer Science is a practical subject where students can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real-world systems. It’s also an intensely creative subject that combines invention and excitement and is a gateway to the industries of the future. This A Level Computer Science qualification is ideal for students who wish to pursue a future in computer science, software development, cyber security, AI, or data science.

Content Overview

With a strong focus on computational thinking and problem-solving, this A Level course enables you to:
• Develop advanced programming skills in Python
• Learn computer architecture and data representation
• Explore algorithms, logic and computational mathematics
• Investigate the ethical, legal and cultural impacts of computing
• Work on a programming project worth 20% of your final grade

Modules

Year 1:
• Components of a Computer System
• Data Types, Structures, and Algorithms
• Programming Techniques
• Boolean Logic and Hardware
• Software Development Life Cycle

Year 2:
• Theoretical Foundations of Computing
• Networking and Web Technologies
• Databases and Big Data
• Legal and Ethical Aspects of Computing
• Programming Project (Non Exam Assessment)

Facilities

• Fully equipped computer suites
• Access to industry-standard programming software and IDEs
• High-speed internet and collaborative digital learning tools
• Dedicated breakout and project spaces
• Online access to course materials and coding environments

All students studying A Levels should have at least five GCSEs at grade 9 – 5 in academic subjects, including English Language at grade 5. Two of these should be grade 6.

Specifically for Computer Science, you will need GCSE Computer Science at grade 6 or above, and GCSE Maths at grade 6 or above.

For when you’re not studying, we offer a whole range of enrichment activities which are not only good fun but help you make friends, develop new skills and add to your CV and university applications. There are trips and visits to national and local tech companies, universities and tech expos to bring your studies to life, with guest lectures from IT professionals.

Through the Student Union and our college committees, you can get involved in sport teams, volunteering, enterprise, fundraising projects or the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. We run societies for you to join, like the debate team, and we organise events and festivals to celebrate our inclusive and diverse community. As for entertainment, we regularly host film nights and go on theatre trips to see live productions.

• Paper 1 (Computer Systems): 40% (Written exam – 2 hours 30 minutes)
• Paper 2 (Algorithms and Programming): 40% (Written exam – 2 hours 30 minutes)
• Programming Project (Non Exam Assessment): 20% (Internally assessed, externally moderated)

We can support you with:
• Structured revision sessions and mock exams
• 1:1 academic mentoring and coding clinics
• Use of past papers and walkthroughs
• Digital learning resources (e.g. IDEs and online platforms)

Students taking A Level Computer Science often go on to study Computer Science, Software Engineering, Cyber Security, Data Science, AI or Robotics-related degree programmes at university, or higher apprenticeships in software development, or they take another science or mathematical subject and use their knowledge of computing to enhance and develop their studies.

Computer Science is also essential to a wide variety of careers, such as Web or App Development or IT Support or Network Engineer roles.

Course Details

Department

Computer Science

Exam Board

OCR

Qualification

Level 3

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Located in West Bromwich, Sandwell College boasts best in class facilities and exceptional teaching standards.
Alongside delivering outstanding pass rates, the College is proud to offer unrivalled mental health services and welfare support, ensuring that every student has access to the advice and guidance they need.

Related Courses

A Level Computer Science

Course Duration
2 Years

Course Type
A Level

Start Date
September 1, 2025

Qualification Level
Level 3

We are a university-style sixth form college based in the centre of West Bromwich, easily accessible from Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Sandwell, Dudley, Halesowen, Sutton Coldfield & Great Barr.