Computer Science

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The Curriculum

At St Gregory's, our curriculum is crafted to nurture essential life skills where we believe that each student is uniquely gifted and intelligent. Our purpose in Computer Science, is to unfold the gifts of each one and to encourage the same in the wider cross-curricular use of IT. We also make sure that students are well prepared for the digital age!

The study of Computer Science is vital in giving our students a knowledge and understanding of the rapidly expanding world of digital communications. All students need to develop an awareness of all issues surrounding Online Safety with particular emphasis on Social Media and Cyberbullying.

Health and Safety issues when using equipment and applications including the use of the internet; the protection of data and the consideration of copyright will also be developed. We also aim to develop a sense of responsibility and self-discipline in our students when using any form of IT.

 

Key Stage 5

Course Code: A Level Computer Science AQA 7517
Exam Board Specification: https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/computer-science/a-level/computer-science-7517/specification

WHY COMPUTER SCIENCE? 

Study Computer Science and be inspired and equipped to tackle the IT challenges facing our modern world. Learn how computers work and start programming in formal scripting languages. 

You will develop your own software project and associated reports to solve a real-life problem. This project can also form a useful discussion topic for UCAS applications. You will learn about the technology that really powers all those things you love using, from websites such as Facebook and Twitter to the games you enjoy playing. 

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 

  • Grade 6 GCSE English and Mathematics 
  • Grade 5 GCSE Computing desirable 
  • A genuine interest in how computers work and in computer programming. 

ASSESSMENT 

  • 40% – Paper 1 – Programming (on-screen exam) 
  • 40% – Paper 2 – Written Exam 
  • 20% – Paper 3 – Non-Exam Assessment (practical project, internally assessed). 

EXTRA AND SUPER CURRICULAR 

Engagement Cyber Explorers – an exciting opportunity to become Cyber Security experts. Help run Coding Clubs for Key Stage 3 students. 

FUTURE PATHWAYS 

University degrees and apprenticeships in Physics, Engineering or Computer Science related courses including Information Systems, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, and Health Informatics. Careers in AI, Cyber Security, IT consultancy, Games Development, Forensic Computer Analysis, Database administration, Software or Web Development, Machine Learning and more. 

COMPLEMENTARY A LEVELS 

Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Philosophy and Ethics, Psychology, Art. 

 

Key Stage 5 Computer Science Curriculum Map