Computing at Fulston

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.

WHY TAKE THIS COURSE?

The influence of computing has been profound in shaping the world in which we now live. The use of technology is almost universal among UK businesses, and increasingly businesses are adopting strategic technologies to deliver new opportunities. There are approximately 1.3 million people working in technology specialist roles in the UK, and technology specialist employment is consistently increasing.

Computing is concerned both with computers and computer systems - how they work and how they are designed, constructed, and used. The core study of computing encompasses programming languages, data structures, algorithms, and the underlying science of information and computation. BTEC's embody a fundamentally learner-centred approach to the curriculum, with a flexible, unit-based structure and knowledge applied in project-based assessments they focus on the holistic development of the practical, interpersonal and thinking skills required to be able to succeed in higher education and employability within this industry.

AIMS OF THE COURSE: The content of this qualification has been developed in consultation with academics to ensure that it incorporates the most up-to-date knowledge and skills to enable progression to higher education. In addition, employers and professional bodies have been consulted on the content development to confirm its relevance with current industry practice used in computing and related occupational disciplines.

The qualification is the equivalent in size to one A Level. It consists of 4 units. Students study three mandatory units, 2 of which are externally assessed.

UNIT 1 Principles of Computer Science

UNIT 2 Fundamentals of Computer Systems

UNIT 7 IT Systems security and encryption

UNIT 14 Games development

Assessment of Units 1 & 2 is by external assessment (examination). All other units are assessed by practical portfolio assessment.

A student is expected to have achieved either at least 5 GCSE's grade 9-5 , one of these being GCSE computing at grade 5 or above. It is strong advised that a student should have gained grade 5 at GCSE in Mathematics or a 5 in GCSE Science. Students are also expected to have a keen interest in computing and keep themselves up to date with technological developments and advances.