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Course Description

This course covers the fundamentals of computer science, including programming, data structures, algorithms, and computer systems. It is designed to develop students’ computational thinking skills and problem-solving abilities through practical programming projects and theoretical concepts.

Students will learn how to program using a high-level language such as Python, how to design and implement data structures and algorithms to solve problems, and how to understand the basic architecture of computer systems. They will also learn about the social, legal, ethical, and environmental implications of computing, and how to evaluate the effectiveness of different solutions.

How will I be assessed?

This course is assessed by two external exams at the end of year 11. Both papers are 1 hour 30 minutes in length and worth 50% of the total GCSE. Mathematical content will also be assessed, however, students are not allowed to use a calculator in the exam.

Paper 1: 1 hr 30 min written paper, 50% of the total GCSE (no calculator allowed)

  • 1.1 Systems architecture 
  • 1.2 Memory and storage
  • 1.3 Computer networks, connections and protocols
  • 1.4 Network security
  • 1.5 System software
  • 1.6 Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental impacts of digital technology 

Paper 2: 1 hr 30 min written paper, 50% of the total GCSE (no calculator allowed)

  • 2.1 Algorithms 
  • 2.2 Programming fundamentals
  • 2.3 Producing robust programs
  • 2.4 Boolean logic 
  • 2.5 Programming languages and Integrated Development Environments

What will I learn?

Paper 1: Computer systems

Topic

Knowledge & Skills

  • Systems Architecture
  • Memory
  • Storage
  • Wired and wireless networks
  • Network topologies, protocols and layers
  • System security
  • System software
  • Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns

Fundamentals of computer systems:

  • Understand the function of hardware components in a computer system
  • Understand how data is represented in binary and hexadecimal
  • Understand the concept of a CPU and its role in executing instructions
  • Understand the concept of memory and storage

Data representation:

  • Understand how data is represented in binary, hexadecimal, and denary
  • Understand how to convert between binary, hexadecimal, and denary
  • Understand the concept of ASCII and Unicode encoding

Computer networks:

  • Understand the concept of a network and its components
  • Understand the difference between LANs, WANs, and the internet
  • Understand the concept of protocols and their role in network communication
  • Understand the OSI and TCP/IP network models.

It also introduces students to ethical use of computers and how to be safe from cyber attacks.

Topic

Knowledge & Skills

This paper is heavily based on Python Programming. 

  • Algorithms
  • Programming techniques
  • Producing robust programs
  • Computational logic
  • Translators and facilities of languages
  • Data representation
  • Applying knowledge of data representation to convert between different number bases
  • Analysing computer architecture to understand how different components work together
  • Implementing algorithms in a programming language and analysing their efficiency
  • Writing code using programming concepts such as data types, operators, and control structures
  • Testing and debugging code to identify and fix errors
  • Understanding the layers of the network stack and how protocols work at each layer
  • Applying Boolean algebra to simplify logic expressions and design logic circuits
  • Analysing operating systems to understand how they manage resources
  • Using SQL to create and query databases
  • Considering ethical, legal, and environmental concerns when making computing decisions.

The skills and knowledge developed within this component will support the learner when completing the Programming Project.

What could I do next?

Career Pathways in Computer Science

Graduating with a background in Computer Science opens up a world of opportunities, whether you choose the university route or hands-on vocational training.

University Route:

A degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or Information Technology offers:

  • In-depth knowledge of areas like AI, Cybersecurity, and Cloud Computing.
  • Specialisations and networking opportunities.
  • Careers such as Software Engineer, Data Scientist, AI Engineer, and Cybersecurity Specialist.

Apprenticeships & Vocational Routes:

Tech apprenticeships provide:

  • Hands-on experience and industry certifications while earning a salary.
  • Practical pathways to roles like Cybersecurity Analyst, Software Developer, Network Engineer, and Data Analyst.

Both pathways equip students with transferable skills, leading to high-demand careers across sectors like finance, healthcare, and digital marketing. Choose the path that suits your goals and style, and step into a thriving tech industry.