Computer Studies

WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR?
This course is for students with a keen interest in finding out how computers work. They will be investigating how computer hardware operates and study how software is written through practical programming lessons. Computing is a challenging subject to study and we will dive quickly into the technical workings of computer technology and programming. Students should be driven, enthusiastic, have a good work ethic and fairly good mathematical skills, as this will generally enable them to understand the logic required for programming.
 
EXAM BOARD, COURSE CONTENT & ASSESSMENT DETAILS
Exam Board—OCR, There are three units and each has its own assessment:

Components 1 and 2 are largely theoretical units. They each will be assessed with a terminal written examination at the end of the course.
Component 3 is a practical unit. Our language of choice is Python3 and students will develop their skills in programming using this language. The unit will culminate in a practical controlled assessment which will be marked by the school and moderated by the exam board.
 
WHAT CAN THIS COURSE LEAD TO POST 16?
It is a fact that information technologies continue to have a growing importance. This means there will be a bigger demand for professionals who are qualified in this area. If students want to go on to higher study and employment in the field of Computer Science, they will find that this course provides a superb stepping stone. Students who have taken a Computer Science GCSE and who then progress to study the subject at A Level or university, will be ready to work in the computing industry, developing computer programs or other innovative technological projects. In addition to this, the course will prepare students (regardless of their chosen career/educational direction) for the future digital world. The skills they acquire will be transferable to any job/course due to the fact that ICT now has such a presence in both education and the working world
 
FOR WHAT CAREERS WILL THIS COURSE BE USEFUL?
All jobs in the computer industry (e.g. Programmer, Computer Engineers etc). Business owners and entrepreneurs.
 Generally, this course will prepare students (regardless of their chosen career/educational direction) for the future digital world.
 
OTHER RELEVANT INFORMATION
The course is fully resourced with lesson presentations, worksheets, videos, revision notes and practice exam questions stored online (Department Website) for students to access 24/7.

Contact Mr Sam Wickins, Head of Department for further information: