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Free A Level Computer Science in Swindon

CostFREE
Duration22 months
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 Swindon. Classes run at Great Western Academy. The course runs full-time over 22 months, covering computational thinking, abstract reasoning, and creative problem-solving across areas such as mobile app development and human-computer interaction. It goes well beyond learning a single programming language; you'll develop the analytical skills to design solutions to complex problems. Entry requires GCSE Computing at grade 6 and GCSE Mathematics at grade 6.

Who this course is for

Computer Science is not just about learning to use tools or just training in a programming language. Instead it is

about computational thinking and creativity. Computational thinking is a method of reasoning used by both humans and

machines and the creativity element allows us to analyse problems and design new and innovative solutions within a

range of disciplines from mobile app development to human computer interaction.

This course has an emphasis on abstract thinking, general problem-solving, algorithmic and mathematical reasoning,

and scientific and engineering-based thinking. Students cover the following content under the main headings of Computer

Science and Algorithms and Programming:

  • Characteristics of contemporary processors
  • Software and Software development
  • Exchanging Data
  • Data types, data structures and algorithms
  • Legal, Moral and Cultural issues
  • Elements of Computational thinking
  • Problem solving and programming
  • Algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms

Entry requirements

GCSE Computing Grade 6 GCSE Mathematics Grade 6

What you will learn

  • You'll develop computational thinking skills to analyse and break down complex problems.
  • You'll apply abstract reasoning to design algorithms and logical solutions.
  • You'll write and evaluate programs using structured programming techniques.
  • You'll explore human-computer interaction and how software meets user needs.
  • You'll study data structures, computer architecture, and how operating systems work.
  • You'll investigate the legal, ethical, and social issues surrounding computing.
  • You'll design and build a programming project as part of your coursework component.

How you will learn

The OCR Advanced GCE in Computer Science is assessed through written examinations and a programming project. You'll sit two written papers covering computer systems and algorithms, problem-solving, and programming. The non-exam assessment is an individual programming project where you identify a problem, design a solution, and implement and evaluate it. Classes are classroom-based, full-time, and run during the day at Great Western Academy.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Great Western Academy 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 test websites and web-based tools
  • IT support analyst: diagnose and resolve technical problems for users
  • Data analyst: interpret datasets to support business decisions
  • Systems administrator: manage networks, servers, and IT infrastructure
  • QA tester: check software works correctly before release
  • Cybersecurity analyst: identify and respond to security threats

What you could study next

  • BSc Computer Science (university degree): the most direct next step; this qualification is a standard entry requirement for computing degrees at UK universities.
  • BSc Software Engineering or Cyber Security: specialist degree routes for those with a clear focus area.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Computing: a Level 4 option if you prefer a more applied, college-based route into the industry.
  • Degree apprenticeship in Digital and Technology Solutions: combines paid work with a degree-level qualification.
Apply on gwacademy.co.uk →
Apply now →

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