Computer Science A Level

Applications Open: - now open

Applications Close: - We would, ideally, like applications to be submitted by Thursday 7th January 2027, when planning for the timetable will begin, but applications will be accepted after this date

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices

Minimum Entry Requirements

The admissions criteria for the Sixth Form are as follows:

At least a grade 4 in English Language or English Literature and a grade 4 in Mathematics

Meet the entry requirements for at least 3 full A Level / vocational subjects. Each subject has its own specific entry criteria. These can be found on the individual subject pages.

Additional considerations

A positive attitude in your chosen subjects and a respect for school aims, objectives and ethos

Commitment to the expectations of the Sixth Form and the school community

Students will not be admitted if they have not completed the appropriate paperwork

This course focus on the knowledge, understanding and the skills you need to progress to higher education or thrive in the workplace. It provides you with a deeper understanding that goes beyond the actual technology.

It aims on nurturing confidence and competence in the practical use of computer-based systems to develop solutions for real-world problems. You will develop applications in one of the following computer languages: C#, Python, Java or Visual Basic. This qualification will be well-prepared to take on the challenges of the modern world.

Studying computer science at A level is challenging, but it is also highly rewarding. There are very few jobs that do not involve the use of computers and having a good understanding of the science behind them will effectively prepare you for further study or employment. No previous computing experience is required for this course. It is much more important to be a logical thinker and to enjoy solving puzzles and problems.

A-level exposes students to:

• Key programming paradigms

• Advanced data structures

• Traversal, search, sort and optimisation algorithms and their efficiency

• Engaging approach to moral, ethical, legal and cultural opportunities and risks from perspective of a computer scientist devising algorithms and writing code

• Opportunities to explore and engage with the changing technology scene: scaling issues, Cloud services, Big Data, cheap programmable devices such as the Raspberry Pi.

• On-screen exam: 2 hours 30 minutes, 100 marks – 40% of grade

• Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes, 100 marks – 40% of grade

• Practical problem coursework: 75 marks - 20% of grade

At least a grade 4 in English Language or English Literature and a grade 4 in Mathematics

Meet the entry requirements for at least 3 full A Level / vocational subjects.

This subject requires:-

Preferred: Grade 6 in GCSE Computer Science or Grade 7 in GCSE Mathematics.

Minimum: Grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics

Advice:

Learn the language of the future! Grow your knowledge of how technology is created and the appreciation you have for solving problems and build your career path.

The course can lead to a degree in Computer Science. From there you can progress into such careers as: applications development; computer forensics; cyber security; games development; hardware engineering; multimedia programming; software engineering; systems/network management; mechanical support; and web design/development.

It is strongly recommended that you take A-Level Mathematics if you wish to study Computer Science at university. A-Level Computer Science also complements A-level Physics and Mathematics; Computer Science and Physics is a popular combination.