Computer Science A Level

Applications Open - 20 November 2025 at 8am

Applications Close - 6 February 2026 at 15:00 (Except Beauty L2 which closes on the 22nd May).

General Entry Requirements:

Our level 3 Sixth Form entry requirements are five GCSEs at Grades 9-4 including Maths and English minimum Grade 4. However, please read the course information, which, provides specific details of course content and entry requirements.

For level 2 courses please read the course information.

Subjects: -

Level 3 - Enter your choices in order of preference for Level 3 courses. Students need to select the equivalent of 3 courses (Triple counts as 3), with 2 reserve options if selecting Level 3 courses. Year 12 are expected to study the equivalent of three subjects. Once we close to applicants on the 6 February the options selected will be reviewed and if required we will be in contact.

Level 2 - just add the course required, eg beauty, finance or fitness. However, please look up all entry requirements for individual subjects as some subjects require specific subjects and grades.

Timetable Blocks- Please read carefully: Level 3 Courses Please select 3 subjects and 2 reserve subjects by placing them in a ranked order/ or a Pathway. Once applications close we will review all subjects requested and may be in contact at this time to discuss your chosen subjects further.

Additional optional qualifications such as Arts Award (Gold),Core Maths, Further Maths and the EPQ are not applied for at the Kent Choice stage further information will be provided in the 6th Form induction if you would like to undertake this course in addition to your core qualifications.

How to Apply - Via Kent Choices or through link on our website https://www.hernebayhigh.org/sixth-form/how-to-apply

Further Information: We reserve the right to withdraw courses if insufficient numbers are attracted.

Any queries, please contact 6form@hernebayhigh.org

This course is subject to course validation and Awarding Body centre approval.

The AQA A Level Computer Science qualification equips students with essential knowledge and skills in computational thinking, problem-solving, and programming. These principles are integral to everyday life, enhancing digital literacy and enabling effective navigation and utilisation of technology. Students develop structured problem-solving techniques applicable beyond programming, influencing decision-making and logical reasoning in various contexts. The course prepares students for higher education or careers in computing and technology sectors. Assessment is conducted through two exams, one on-screen and one written, and a practical programming project.

• 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

• Non-exam assessment - the computing practical project

This is a two-year course, and the assessment is via two examination papers at the end of the course, and a non-exam assessment Carried out during the course.

Paper 1 - 2 hours 30 minutes paper – 100 marks - worth 40% of A Level

This paper tests a student's ability to program, as well as their theoretical knowledge of Computer Science.

Students answer a series of short questions and write/adapt/extend programs in an Electronic Answer Document.

Paper 2 - 2 hours 30 minutes paper – 100 marks - worth 40% of A Level

This paper tests a student's ability to answer questions on algorithms, data structures, and ethical implications of computing.

Students provide a series of short-answer and extended-answer questions.

Non-exam assessment – 75 marks – worth 20% of A Level

Assesses a student's ability to use the knowledge and skills gained through the course to solve or investigate a practical problem. Students will be expected to follow a systematic approach to problem solving.

2 Year Course: Normally 5 GCSE grade 9-4, including Maths and English at minimum grade4 and GCSE Computer Science Grade 6.

A Level Computer Science is highly regarded by universities and employers, particularly those in the fields of technology, engineering, and sciences. It provides a solid foundation for further study at university or entry into the workplace in roles related to software development, data analysis, and IT management.