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A Level Computer Science

At St Edward’s, our A Level Computer Science course is an exciting and dynamic course that encourages a number of modern technological skills.

Why Study A Level Computer Science?

Advances in Computer Science are transforming the way we live and work, concepts such as AI and automation are going to have incredible impacts upon our future and studying A Level Computer Science allows you to be at the forefront of this technological evolution. 

The course emphasises abstract-thinking, logical problem-solving, algorithmic and mathematical reasoning and scientific enquiry and is an excellent foundation for both further study in any discipline or to take into the workplace.

Course Contact

Mr Cain Prince
A Level Computer Science Subject Leader

Course Content

We use the AQA exam board for A Level Computer Science (7517) and cover the following content: 

  • Fundamentals of programming 
  • Fundamentals of data structures 
  • Fundamentals of algorithms 
  • Theory of computation 
  • Fundamentals of data representation 
  • Fundamentals of computer systems 
  • Fundamentals of computer organisation and architecture 
  • Consequences of uses of computing 
  • Fundamentals of communication and networking 
  • Fundamentals of databases 
  • Big Data 
  • Fundamentals of functional programming 
  • Systematic approach to problem solving 

This is assessed by 3 components: 

Paper 1 (40%): On-Screen Exam – 2hours 30mins
Uses pre-release skeleton code to assess both programming concepts and theory knowledge 

Paper 2 (40%): Paper Exam –  2 hours 30mins
Tests theory knowledge through a mix of short and long answer questions 

Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) (20%): Programming Project
Develop a solution to a real-world problem of your choice

Where can this take you?

After studying Computer Science at St Edward’s, you could undertake further study at University in any discipline, particularly STEM-based subjects or take your skills into the workplace in any technology-based industry, either through any type of apprenticeship (degree or otherwise) or through employment.

Student Destinations 

  • University of Plymouth - Computer Science
  • University of Plymouth - Computer Science (Cybersecurity) 
  • Bournemouth University - Computing
  • Ultra (Engineering) - Degree Apprenticeship
  • University of Southampton - Aeronautics and Astronautics

Key information

Download Entry Requirements

If you are not sitting the Higher tier paper for GCSE Mathematics, then please get in contact to discuss if this will be an appropriate option. 

If you are not taking GCSE Computer Science, then you need to be able to program to a good standard (GCSE equivalent) before you start the course, ideally in Python. If you would like to discuss the programming requirements of the course, then please get in touch. 

Student Testimonials

"Despite not doing GCSE Computer Science, I have felt supported throughout my studies to achieve the highest grades and have since applied to study Computer Science at University."

Alex, KS5 Computer Science student

"I have particularly enjoyed the depth of the A Level, especially the programming side, along with the creative freedom to choose my own project."

Ben, KS5 Computer Science student