A Computer Science qualification will, above all else, be relevant to the modern and changing world of computer science. Computer Science is a practical subject where learners can apply the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom to real-world problems. It is an intensely creative subject that involves invention and excitement.
Our Computer Science qualification will value computational thinking, helping learners to develop the skills to solve problems and design systems that do so.
These skills will be the best preparation for learners who want to go on to study Computer Science at A Level and beyond. The qualification will also provide a good grounding for other subject areas that require computational thinking and analytical skills.
Due to the technical nature of the course, in order to be successful at GCSE, students will need to have a good level of attainment in Maths and Science, and also have demonstrated a keen interest in programming. If you are unsure and require further information, please contact Mr Ollivierre who will be able to guide you.
The Content and Assessment overview (from Pearsons.com):
The Pearson Edexcel Level 1/Level 2 GCSE (9–1) qualification in Computer Science consists of two externally-examined papers. Paper 1 is a written examination and Paper 2 is a practical onscreen assessment.
Paper 1
Paper 1 covers the Principles of computer Science in a 1 hour and 30 mins written assessment. It is weighted as 50% of the overall grade for the course (at 75marks) and consists of five compulsory questions, each one focused on one of the five chapters covered during KS4.
Paper 2
Paper 2 is the application of Computational Thinking, in the form of Python Coding, consisting of an 'Onscreen' 2-hour examination. It is weighted as 50% of the overall grade of the course (75 marks) and consists of six compulsory questions that require students to design, write, test and refine python programs to solve and run code correctly.
