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Free A Level Computer Science in Harrow

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyOCR awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Advanced GCE in Computer Science in Harrow. Classes run at Canons High School. The course covers computer systems, algorithms, programming, and a substantial programming project you complete independently. It takes two years of full-time daytime study. Entry requires mostly grade C or above at GCSE, including at least grade 4 in English and Maths. The level 3 advanced GCE in computer science qualification opens routes into computer science degrees and careers in software development, games development, and data analysis.

Who this course is for

It provides the ideal foundation for those students who wish to pursue computer science at degree level, or a career in the computer science field.

A Level Computer Science can lead onto careers as computer programmers, in games development, in software development, in research and in the city as quantitative analysts.

What will I study?

A Level Computer Science

  • Component 01 - Computer systems
  • Component 02 - Algorithms and programming
  • Component 03 - Programming project

Entry requirements

Mostly C's or above (including at least 4 in English and Maths)

What you will learn

  • You'll study how computer systems work, including hardware, software, and data representation.
  • You'll develop skills in algorithms: designing, analysing, and evaluating them.
  • You'll write and debug programs using a high-level programming language.
  • You'll complete an independent programming project, planning and building a working software solution.
  • You'll explore topics in data structures, databases, networks, and computer security.
  • You'll learn how legal, ethical, and social issues affect computing and technology.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at Canons High School. Assessment is by written examinations: Component 01 (Computer Systems) and Component 02 (Algorithms and Programming) are both externally examined. Component 03 is a non-exam assessment, a programming project you research, design, develop, and evaluate independently. It is marked by your teacher and moderated by OCR.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Canons High School will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Software developer: design and build applications and systems
  • Computer programmer: write and test code across a range of platforms
  • Games developer: create and program video game mechanics and systems
  • Quantitative analyst: apply computing and data skills in financial services
  • IT support engineer: diagnose and resolve technical issues for organisations
  • Data analyst: interpret and present data to support business decisions
  • Cybersecurity analyst: protect systems and networks from threats

What you could study next

  • Computer Science degree (BSc): the natural next step if you want to specialise further. This level 3 advanced GCE in computer science qualification is a standard entry requirement for university computer science programmes.
  • Software Engineering degree (BEng): focuses on large-scale software systems and professional development practice.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Computing: a Level 4 work-related alternative if you prefer a more applied route into the industry.
Apply on canons.harrow.sch.uk →
Apply now →

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