Computer Science A Level (OCR)

Applications Open: 27/11/25

Applications Close: 31/01/26

Entry Requirements: 4 GCSE passes at grade 6 or above including grade 5s in Maths and either English Literature or Language.

How to Apply: Online application using Applicca - https://rochestergrammarschool.applicaa.com/applicaa.com/Year12

Paper 1 – Computer Systems

• The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices

• Software and software development

• Exchanging data

• Data types, data structures and algorithms

• Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues

Paper 2 – Algorithms and Programming

• Elements of computational thinking

• Problem solving and programming

• Algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms

Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) - The learner will choose a Computing problem to work through according to the guidance in the specification.

• Analysis of the problem

• Design of the solution

• Developing the solution

• Evaluation

Computer Systems (01) – 140 marks, 2 hrs 30 mins, 40% of total A Level

Algorithms and Programming (02) – 140 marks, 2 hrs 30 mins, 40% of total A Level

Programming Project (03) – NEA, 70 marks, 20% of total A Level

GCSE Grade 7 in Mathematics

GCSE Grade 7 in Computer Science

If computer science not studied then programming entrance test to be completed set by the Curriculum Leader

Complimentary subjects include Mathematics and Further Maths