Although they are invisible and intangible, software systems are amongst the largest and most complex artefacts ever created by human beings…
Computing at School Working Group – March 2012
Our Computer Science department aims to develop the knowledge and skills required for students to play an active role in the digital world that surrounds them. Developing a firm grasp of computing concepts will help them get the best from the systems they use, solve problems when they go wrong and create new systems when they are required.
We believe all students will find the combination of computational thinking, computing principles and computational approach to problem-solving empowering. Focusing this combination of academic and practical skills on a problem will help bring success in all curriculum subjects and the CAST challenge projects.
There can sometimes be confusion about the differences between ICT and Computing. Computer Science refers to the processes used to create computer programs/systems and applications, combined with the theory behind those processes. On the other hand, information technology refers to the application of computer programs and tools to solve problems.
Computing in industry is essentially a practical subject that applies theory to design and develop products for clients. With this in mind, we have expanded our curriculum to reflect modern business practice. Most learning is delivered through projects, which involve project management, teamwork, report writing and the use of industry-standard tools.
Content
We follow the EDUCAS A Level Specification. The course aims to develop students who can: apply theoretical knowledge to practical tasks; design and produce high-quality programs; be aware of their contribution to society; and understand how the course material relates to industry practices.
Scheme of Learning
Component 1: Programming and System Development – 40% of the course.
This component investigates programs, data structures, algorithms, logic, programming methodologies and the impact of computer science on society.
Component 2: Computer Architecture, Data, Communication and Applications – 40% of the course.
This component investigates computer architecture, communication, data representation, organisation and structure of data, programs, algorithms and software applications.
Component 3: Programmed Solution to a Problem (NEA) – 20% of the course (72 hours of class time)
Candidates discuss, investigate, design, prototype, refine and implement, test and evaluate a computerised solution to a problem chosen by the candidate which must be solved using original code (programming). This is a substantial piece of work, undertaken over an extended period.
As the focus for these subjects has a large practical aspect, we ensure all students are taught the fundamentals of project management, including time management and scheduling. We also teach some aspects of the course through NEA-formatted projects, using the mark scheme for assessment purposes.
Year 12
Autumn Term
Spring Term
Summer Term
Year 13
Autumn Term
Spring Term
Spring Term 2/Summer Term: Revision