Computer Science
Computing and digital technologies are part of every aspect of our lives. The modern world and our society are being shaped by computers. More than ever, we need computer scientists to step up and make the world a better place. Computer science is, above all else, the science of solving problems. No single subject offers more of an opportunity to change the world.
The OCR Computer Science A Level qualification allows students to understand core academic principles of computer science. Academic principles learned in the classroom are transferred into creating real world systems in an exciting and engaging manner. Our A Level will develop students’ technical understanding and ability to analyse and solve problems using computational thinking.
In Lower Sixth, students will be introduced to the fundamental technical principles of computing, computational thinking and problem solving.
In Upper Sixth, students will progress to study data exchange, software development, data types, legal and ethical issues. Students will also be able to build on their computational thinking and problem-solving introduced in Lower Sixth, to include algorithms, programming and thinking abstractly.
Skills Required
The following are features that make a good computer scientist:
• Imagination
• Logical thinker
• Someone who’s not afraid to be challenged
It is also helpful, but not essential, to have some programming experience and/or a solid understanding of mathematics.
Topics Covered
Over the two year course, students will study the following:
- Components of a Computer
- Systems Software
- Software Development
- Exchanging Data
- Networks and web technologies
- Data Types
- Data Structures
- Boolean Algebra
- Legal, Moral, Ethical and Cultural Issues
- Computational Thinking
- Programming Techniques
- Algorithms
Methods of Assessment
Lower Sixth
Paper 1: 50% weighting
Computing Principles, 1 hour 15 minutes
Paper 2: 50% weighting
Algorithms and Problem Solving, 1 hour 15 minutes
Upper Sixth
Paper 1: 40% weighting
Computer Systems, 2 hours 30 minutes
Paper 2: 40% weighting
Algorithms and Programming, 2 hour 30 minutes
Programming Project: 20% weighting
Internally assessed, externally moderated.
Other Information
Every year students get the chance to take part in the Oxford University Computing Challenge.
Meet the staff
If you have a specific enquiry for the Computer Science Department, email computer.science@kes.hants.sch.uk
| Mr. D. Cutler MPhys |
Head of Computer Science and Digital Literacy Teacher Year 7-Year 11 and Sixth Form |
| Mr. L.J. Hall BEng |
Teacher Year 7-Year 10 |
| Mr. O.J. Rokinson MEng |
Assistant Head (Digital Strategy) Teacher Sixth Form and Year 8 |
| Mr. M.P. Willis BSc |
Teacher Year 7, Mathematics |
