Free Level 3 Advanced Subsidiary GCE in Computer Science Course in Sunderland. Classes run at Southmoor Academy 6th Form, full-time during the day. You'll need a Grade 5 in GCSE Mathematics to join. The course runs over 11 months and covers programming, software development, and the academic principles behind how real-world computer systems work. It combines creative problem-solving with technical rigour, exploring how digital thinking applies to the world around us.
Who this course is for
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, and can look at the natural world through a digital prism. This course is ideal for students who have an interest in programming and software development.
Entry requirements
Grade 5 in GCSE Mathematics.
What you will learn
You'll write and debug programs using one or more programming languages.
You'll understand the principles of computer systems, including hardware and software.
You'll apply algorithms and data structures to solve computational problems.
You'll explore how networks and the internet work.
You'll study databases and how data is stored and retrieved.
You'll examine issues around security, ethics, and the legal context of computing.
You'll develop your ability to analyse problems and design software solutions.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at Southmoor Academy 6th Form, combining theory with practical programming work. Assessment is through written examinations and a programming project component, as set by OCR. Your teachers will guide you through both the conceptual side of computer science and hands-on coding tasks throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Southmoor Academy 6th Form will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Junior software developer: entry-level role writing and testing code.
IT support technician: diagnosing and fixing hardware and software issues.
Web developer: building and maintaining websites and web applications.
Data analyst: working with datasets to find patterns and insights.
Network technician: setting up and managing computer networks.
QA tester: checking software works correctly before release.
What you could study next
A Level Computer Science (OCR or other awarding body): the full two-year A Level, which universities typically require for computing and software engineering degrees.
Level 3 IT or Software Development qualifications: BTEC or equivalent routes if you prefer a more applied, coursework-based path.
Degree apprenticeship in Software Engineering or Cyber Security: combines university study with paid work, usually requiring A Level or equivalent entry.
