Computer Science A Level

Applications Open: - Friday 14 November 2025

Applications Close: - 13 February 2026. Applications may be considered after this date but it is strongly advised to apply before this deadline.

Entry Requirements: - Admission to courses - This is based on your needs and staff advice, but you should be aware of these points: 1. You will need to obtain a minimum of six GCSE passes at Level 5 or above including Mathematics and English (a minimum of a grade 5 in the reformed GCSE qualifications in English and Mathematics) and grades 9-6 in their preferred A-Level subjects or nearest equivalents. 2. Subjects have clear entry requirements. You will find these under the course details or from Subject Heads.

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices (Internal and External Students)

External Applicants - please click here (This form is for external candidates and parents/carers to book a slot to ask any questions about the admissions process and Sixth Form at Highsted Grammar School). Please be aware that it is first come, first served. We will try our best to accommodate your preferences but this might not always be possible).

Internal candidates - should contact their Head of Year directly.

Computer Science is an intensely creative course that combine both invention and excitement. At A-level learners are free to choose a programming project of their choice thus bringing in their creativity and knowledge. The A-level course will provide an insight into how computers work and encourage learners to explore everyday technology.

The course runs over a 2-year period where learners will cover a range of topics including data representation, computers system architecture, data structures, web technologies and python programming. There will be an in-depth emphasis on problem solving and mathematical skills. Students will gain practical skills in advanced python programming such as in Object Oriented programming techniques. At the end of year 12, students will start their coursework which is 20% of their final grade covering how to solve a problem to producing a working solution.

At the end of year 12, students will start their Programming Project coursework which is 20% of their final grade covering how to solve a problem to producing a working solution.

Computer Systems is worth 40% and Algorithms and Programming is worth 40%

Grade 6 or above in both English Language and Mathematics at GCSE. These are necessary as the course requires mathematical skills as well as skills in written communication. Learners will submit a project that is self-directed at the end of the course thus a good quality of writing is required. Learners should be able to demonstrate they can program to a high standard.

Computer Science is a practical subject where learners can apply the academic principles learned in classroom to real world systems. Computer Science is relevant to the modern and changing world of technology. Every industry uses computers; thus, learners can pursue any sector after their studies. It is a very completive industry and the benefits are also worth it. Most employers seek people with computing experience to work with them such as hospitals, schools and the e-commerce sector. Careers can include IT consultant, Game Developer, Computer Law, Data Mining, IT Technicians, AI developer, UX researchers, machine learning engineer and many more.