Free Advanced GCE in Computer Science in Sleaford. Classes run at Kesteven and Sleaford High School Selective Academy. You'll need five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including a grade 6 in Maths, to join this level 3 advanced GCE in computer science course. Over two years of full-time daytime study, you'll cover processor architecture, software development, programming, data structures and algorithms, exchanging data, and legal, moral and ethical issues in computing. You'll also complete a substantial computer project. Assessment is 80% written exams and 20% coursework.
Who this course is for
The course comprises of 3 units , 2 x 2.5 hr exams 80% and 20% Coursework. Course content includes; Characteristics of contemporary Processors, Software and software development, Programming, Exchanging data, Data types, structures and algorithms, Legal. Moral and ethical issues, The principles of comuter thinking, Problem solving and programming,
algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms and a Computer project.
Entry requirements
5 x grade 5 at GCSE, Must have grade 6 in Maths
What you will learn
You'll study the characteristics of contemporary processors and how they work.
You'll explore software types and the principles of software development.
You'll write and analyse programs using a range of programming techniques.
You'll learn how data is exchanged across systems and networks.
You'll work with data types, data structures, and standard algorithms.
You'll apply computational thinking to solve problems algorithmically.
You'll examine legal, moral, and ethical issues in computing.
You'll design and build an independent computer project from start to finish.
How you will learn
The course is classroom based, delivered full-time during the day over two years. Assessment consists of two written exams, each two and a half hours long, making up 80% of your final grade. The remaining 20% comes from a coursework project. The course is structured across three units covering theory, programming, and your independent project.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Kesteven and Sleaford High School Selective Academy will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Software developer: writes and tests code for applications and systems.
Junior web developer: builds and maintains websites and web applications.
IT support analyst: troubleshoots hardware, software, and network issues.
Data analyst: works with datasets to find patterns and support decisions.
Systems administrator: manages and maintains an organisation's IT infrastructure.
Junior cybersecurity analyst: monitors systems and responds to security threats.
What you could study next
Degree in Computer Science (BSc): the natural next step, covering advanced programming, AI, networks, and systems design.
Degree in Software Engineering (BEng): focuses on building large-scale software systems professionally.
Degree in Cybersecurity: specialist route into security roles, building on the networking and ethical content covered at Level 3.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Computing: a one-year higher education option if you prefer a more applied route before committing to a full degree.
