A Level Computer Science

If you're interested in learning about the fundamental principles and concepts behind computer science and software engineering, then this course is for you. The course will provide an understanding of, and the ability to apply, the fundamental principle and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation.

You will develop the ability to analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems and will write programs to do so. The capacity for thinking creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically is essential to success on this course, as is the capacity to see relationships between different aspects of computer science.

You will be encouraged to articulate the individual, moral, social and ethical risks of digital technology as well as assessing the legal and cultural opportunities posed.

Mathematical skills you will develop:

• Boolean algebra
• Comparison of complexity of algorithms
• Number representations and bases

How will I learn? The course includes a wide variety of learning experiences such as lectures, one to one tutorials, ICT based tasks, practical work, group work, discussions/debates, DVDs and personal research when preparing for assessment and lots of practical programming skills.

A Level Computer Science combines well with courses such as Business, Maths, Further Maths, Physics and our brand new A+ Certificate in Engineering (equivalent to one A Level). 

Assessment is comprised of three components:

• Component 1: Programming and System Development - Written Examination: 2 hours 45 minutes worth 40% of qualification.
• Component 2: Computer Architecture, Data, Communication and Applications - Written Examination: 2 hours 45 minutes worth 40% of qualification.
• Component 3: Programmed Solution to a Problem - Non-exam assessment - 20% of qualification.

If you wish to find out more you can contact Lesley Kelly or Steph Tague, Head of Computing, by emailing: lesley.kelly@nscg.ac.uk or steph.tague@nscg.ac.uk.

There are a wide range of undergraduate degrees available in computing both locally and further afield. Both Staffordshire and Keele University offer computing options which can be combined with many other subjects. Employers are interested in both the technical and the non-technical skills gained during your computer science/IT degree. 

See where these multiple skills can lead you: Games developer, Information systems manager, IT consultant, System Analyst, Systems Developer, Database Administrator, Multimedia Programmer, Business Analyst, Hardware Engineer , Software Engineer, Network Engineer, Researcher

Jobs where your degree would be useful include: IT Sales, Research, Finance , Technical Author, IT Trainer, Secondary School Teacher, Geographical Information Systems Officer

This course is free for anyone aged 16 – 18. 

College Maintenance Allowance (CMA): Anyone with a household income under £26,000 can receive up to £20 per week financial support to help pay for travel and meals and meet the costs of essential trips, books, stationery and equipment. The payments will be subject to full attendance on your course. A range of other financial support is available, depending on your personal circumstances. For more details visit nscg.ac.uk/finance