Computer Science A Level

A Level Computer Science

Discover the solutions to computer problems and learn the science behind the technology. A Level Computer Science is a two year course which will give you the opportunity to become an effective designer and implementer of computing solutions. Many students who enjoy and successfully complete this subject typically progress onto a range of degree courses including: Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Games Development and Information Systems.

• Course Information

  • Course Code

    LACOMPU

  • Exam Board

    WJEC

  • Attendance Pattern

    Daytime

  • Course Level

    Level 3

  • Study Mode

    Full Time

  • Course Location

    Langdale Road, Leyland

  • Age Group

    School Leavers (16-18)

  • Course Duration

    2 years

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• Overview

  During programming sessions, students are able to work in a community environment where people are free to share their own ideas and answer questions from others. This provides a realistic environment in which to develop skills and prepare for a potential future career in the industry. By learning the ‘Python’ programming language, students are also equally well-equipped to move into either Higher Education or to start their own career pathway. We complement these sessions with our new enrichment offering, the Games Development Academy, which provides further opportunity for students to develop relevant skills, in new and challenging ways.

  What will I study?

  Students will learn about the characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output, and storage devices. Types of software and the different methodologies used to develop software, data exchange between different systems, data types, data structures, algorithms, and legal, moral, cultural, and ethical issues. Students will learn how to think abstractly, ahead, and procedurally and problem solve. Students will apply principles of computational thinking to an independent practical coding programming project.

  Course Highlights:

  Computing Academy and learning all about Python, Java and C#.

• Entry Requirements

  Overall requirements for the A Level Programme at Runshaw College require a minimum of 5 GCSE subjects at Grade 5, in 5 separate national curriculum subjects (including a minimum of grade 4 in both English and Maths). It is expected that most students will study 3 subjects – the option of doing 4 subjects for students who have an average GCSE grade profile of 8 or above will be considered on an individual basis. For more information on your future career path, visit www.informedchoices.ac.uk. View all our A Level courses in detail by clicking here.

• How will I be assessed?

  Assessment takes place at the end of year 2 via two exams and a coursework project.

  Progress is measured regularly using a range of informal assessment techniques.

  • Component 1: Computer Systems 40%
  • Component 2: Algorithms and programming 40%
  • Component 3: Programming project 20%
• Progression Pathway

  Level Computer Science prepares you very well for a range of degrees including: Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Games Development, Information Systems, Forensic Computing, Computer Technologies, Network Management and Web Design and Services.

  The school has excellent links with local universities including Lancaster University, UCLan, University of Manchester and Liverpool Metropolitan University.

• National Careers Service

  For guidance about what careers subjects can lead on to please follow this link to the National Careers Service.