Free Advanced GCE in Computer Science in Greenwich. Classes run at Woolwich Polytechnic School. This two-year, full-time daytime course covers processor architecture, software development, data structures, algorithms, and the legal and ethical dimensions of computing. You'll also complete a project where you define, investigate, and build a software solution to a computing problem of your choice. Entry requires an AS grade D. The OCR Advanced GCE in Computer Science qualification sits at Level 3 and is widely used as a route into university computing courses and tech careers.
Who this course is for
The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices, software and software development, programming, exchanging data, data types, data structures and algorithms, legal, moral ethical and cultural issues.
Algorithms and problem solving
Elements of computational thinking, problem solving and programming, and algorithms.
Project
Candidates will choose a computing problem, gain an understanding of definition, investigation and analysis, system design, software development and testing, documentation, evaluation and how to produce written reports covering these topics.
Entry requirements
AS grade D
What you will learn
You'll understand how contemporary processors, input, output, and storage devices work.
You'll study software types and the principles of software development.
You'll write and analyse programs using a range of programming techniques.
You'll explore how data is exchanged, structured, and represented.
You'll work with data types, data structures, and algorithms.
You'll apply elements of computational thinking to solve problems.
You'll examine legal, moral, ethical, and cultural issues in computing.
You'll complete an independent project, taking a computing problem from analysis through to a working software solution.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at Woolwich Polytechnic School. Assessment is by written examinations covering the taught content, including computational thinking, algorithms, and computer systems. You'll also complete a programming project, assessed on your ability to define a problem, design a solution, and develop working software. This project is submitted as coursework.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Woolwich Polytechnic School will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Software developer: write and maintain applications and systems
Junior web developer: build and update websites and web apps
IT support analyst: troubleshoot hardware, software, and networks
Data analyst: interpret and present data to support decisions
Network technician: set up and manage computer networks
Cybersecurity analyst: identify and respond to security threats
Systems administrator: manage and maintain IT infrastructure
What you could study next
BSc Computer Science (university degree): the natural next step after an advanced GCE in computer science, covering software engineering, AI, networks, and more in depth.
BSc Cyber Security or Data Science: specialist degree routes for those drawn to security or data-focused careers.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Computing: a Level 4 option if you prefer a more applied, vocational route into the tech industry.
