What is Computer Science?

Computer Science is a technical subject suitable for students who are interested in learning how computers work, how they store and process data and how they communicate. It covers topics such as the purpose of the various components, types of networks, the binary and hexadecimal number systems, the Internet and its uses and Computer Laws.

There is also an emphasis on problem-solving and programming. On this course, students learn how to look at a problem, break it down into steps and then write a program to solve the problem.

  • Course specific requirements

    Grade 6 from Maths plus 5 from Science

  • Assessment method

    2 final exams and a coursework project

  • Course duration

    2 years

  • Course type

    Linear A-level

  • Exam Board

    AQA

How will you study?

Half of all lessons will be of a practical nature. You will be introduced to a new programming language and the environment. The programming language being taught is C# which is widely favoured by Universities. Initially you will be shown by your teacher how to enter a program, how to run a program, as well as the first steps in writing your own programs. This will eventually lead to you developing solutions to more complex problems. In addition you will be given theory lessons focusing on the hardware, software, logic and architecture.

What makes a good Computer Science student?

  • You have an interest in the subject, for example, in computing magazines and the technology sections of quality newspapers. You like to keep up to date with the latest developments
  • You have some experience of programming skills outside school
  • You have a willingness to experiment with your programs and investigate additional commands
  • You have patience and the determination to keep trying to complete a program when it doesn’t work first time

Why choose Xaverian?

  • Strong links with universities and other partners, leading to opportunities to develop special coding knowledge

  • Opportunities for travel to Europe to experience technology in action and historic advencement and developments

  • Specialist guest speakers and visitors to share knowledge, opinion and experience

Course Content Summary

fundamentals of:

    • Programming
    • Computer Systems
    • Data Representation
    • Computer Organisation and Architecture
    • Communication and Networking
    • Functional Programming
    • Software Development and Algorithms
    • Theory of Computation
    • Consequences of using Computing
    • Big Data
    • Data structures
    • Databases

What can I do after Xaverian?

Many of our students go on to do Computer Science related degrees. These vary from Software Engineering to degrees specialising in cyber security, robotics, Artificial Intelligence and Games Programming. Computing is considered useful by leading Universities for students intending to study a wide range of non-computing subjects. Some are more obvious such as Engineering, Mathematics and Science but it is also useful for subjects

Why choose Xaverian?

  • Strong links with universities and other partners, leading to opportunities to develop special coding knowledge

  • Opportunities for travel to Europe to experience technology in action and historic advencement and developments

  • Specialist guest speakers and visitors to share knowledge, opinion and experience

Course Content Summary

fundamentals of:

    • Programming
    • Computer Systems
    • Data Representation
    • Computer Organisation and Architecture
    • Communication and Networking
    • Functional Programming
    • Software Development and Algorithms
    • Theory of Computation
    • Consequences of using Computing
    • Big Data
    • Data structures
    • Databases

What can I do after Xaverian?

Many of our students go on to do Computer Science related degrees. These vary from Software Engineering to degrees specialising in cyber security, robotics, Artificial Intelligence and Games Programming. Computing is considered useful by leading Universities for students intending to study a wide range of non-computing subjects. Some are more obvious such as Engineering, Mathematics and Science but it is also useful for subjects