A Level Computer Science at Sandy Secondary School provides a comprehensive and challenging programme for students who want to understand how computers work and develop the skills to create software solutions. Examined by OCR, this course combines theoretical knowledge with practical programming, preparing students for one of the fastest-growing sectors in the modern economy.
The course covers a broad range of topics including the characteristics of contemporary processors, input/output and storage devices, software and software development, exchanging data, data types, data structures and algorithms, and the legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues surrounding computing. Students also develop computational thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and practical programming expertise.
A major component of the course is the programming project, where students choose a real computing problem and work through the full development lifecycle — from analysis and design through to implementation, testing, and evaluation. This hands-on project gives students invaluable experience of applying their skills to solve genuine problems.
| Component | Percentage | Duration | Marks | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Systems (01) | 40% | 2½ hours | 140 | Written paper |
| Algorithms & Programming (02*) | 40% | 2½ hours | 140 | Written paper |
| Programming Project (03/04) | 20% | N/A | 70 | Non-examination assessment |
A Level Computer Science opens doors to some of the most in-demand and well-paid careers in the modern economy. The problem-solving, logical thinking, and programming skills developed through this course are valued across virtually every industry sector, making it an excellent foundation for a wide range of career pathways.
Students from Sandy Secondary School have gone on to complete IT Apprenticeships and university degrees in ICT and Computer Science. The course provides ideal preparation for careers in software engineering, web development, network management, database analysis, and teaching. Computing skills are also essential for the vast majority of graduate-level positions across all sectors.
Ready to build the future? Our A Level Computer Science programme at Sandy Secondary School combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on programming, preparing you for careers in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries. Speak with Mrs T Moncrieff to discover how computing can shape your future.
Contact the Computer Science Department
