A Level computer science provides a wonderful balance alongside a wide range of other subjects and a significant number of our pupils intend to study computer science at university. The course we follow is accessible with no previous academic study of computer science.
Theory concepts include computer systems and architecture, communication and networking, data representation, ethical considerations, data structures, and classic algorithms. Programming topics include databases, assembly language programming, procedural programming, object-oriented programming and functional programming.
We teach C# for the procedural and object-oriented programming elements, using Visual Studio as well as online resources.
We teach Haskell for the functional programming elements.
Exam board: AQA
Course name: Computer Science
Beyond the curriculum
Computing club allows pupils of all ages to explore programming further. Cipher club allows pupils to learn about encryption and code-breaking. They take part in the National Cipher Challenge and the Alan Turing Cryptography Competition. Outside speakers are invited to talk to older pupils about careers related to computer science.
In addition, pupils participate in trips such as the “Girls into STEM” and “Faraday Challenge” events. Pupils participate in Cyber Discovery, learning about cyber security whilst testing their skills in a national competition. The school enters teams into Perse Coding Team Challenge and Bebras challenge.
