Free A Level Computer Science in Huntingdon

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

About this course

Free Advanced GCE in Computer Science in Huntingdon. Classes run at Hinchingbrooke School. This level 3 advanced GCE in computer science course runs full-time over two years. You'll study computational thinking, problem-solving, and how academic principles apply to real-world systems. Computer science combines creative and analytical thinking, covering both theory and practical programming. Entry requires a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including grade 7 in Computer Science, grade 6 in Maths, and grade 6-6 in Combined Science.

Who this course is for

This qualification is relevant to the modern and changing world of computing, and is also relevant to the higher education community. Computer Science is a practical subject where students can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real-world systems. It’s an intensely creative subject that combines invention and excitement. The course values computational thinking, helping students to develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand the power and limits of human and machine intelligence. It is designed to inspire and challenge students to apply the knowledge they gain with the creative and technical skills they acquire. Other aspects are:

  • ‘A’ Level Computer Science is focused on programming; it builds on GCSE Computing and emphasises the importance of computational thinking as a discipline.
  • There is an expanded Maths focus, much of which is embedded within the course.
  • There is an increased emphasis on coding and programming.

Entry requirements

Minimum sixth from entry requirements are Five 5s. for this course, GCSE grade 7 in Computer Science, 6 in Maths and 6-6 in Combined Science

What you will learn

  • You'll develop computational thinking skills to analyse and solve complex problems.
  • You'll design and build software systems using programming languages.
  • You'll understand the theoretical foundations of computer science, including algorithms and data structures.
  • You'll explore how computer systems work, from hardware to operating systems.
  • You'll apply academic principles to real-world computing challenges.
  • You'll study the social, ethical, and legal aspects of computing.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based lessons combining theory and practical programming work. Assessment is through written examinations and a programming project completed during the course. The OCR specification includes a non-exam assessment component where you design and implement a programmed solution to a problem of your choosing.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Junior software developer: write and test code in a development team.
  • IT support analyst: troubleshoot systems and support users.
  • Data analyst: work with datasets to find patterns and insights.
  • Network technician: set up and maintain computer networks.
  • Cybersecurity analyst: protect systems from threats and breaches.
  • Web developer: build and maintain websites and web applications.

What you could study next

  • BSc Computer Science (degree): the natural next step after this level 3 advanced GCE in computer science qualification, accepted by universities across the UK.
  • BSc Software Engineering (degree): focuses on large-scale software development and systems design.
  • BSc Cybersecurity (degree): specialist route into security-focused roles.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Computing: a Level 4 alternative to a full degree, often available with funding.