Free GCE A Level in Computer Science in Bury. Classes run at Holy Cross Sixth Form College. This level 3 GCE A Level in Computer Science course runs full-time over two years, with daytime classes. You'll study how computers solve real problems, combining logical thinking with creative approaches to programming, systems, and data. Entry requires grade 4 or above in GCSE Maths, plus the college's general entry requirements. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm the course is the right fit and to plan your learning.
Who this course is for
OverviewComputers are a huge part of our lives. Not only are they a key part of business, industry, government and education but they?re now central to our leisure lives and homes.In this increasingly technological age, the study of computer science, and particularly how computers are used in the solution of a variety of problems, is not only valuable to the learner but essential to the future wellbeing of the country.What we?ll studyComputer Science demands both logical discipline and imaginative creativity in the selection and design of algorithms and the writing, testing and debugging of programs.It relies on an understanding of the rules of language at a fundamental level and encourages an awareness of the management and organisation of computer systems. For the programming part of the course we use Visual Basic.net.Our course has both a theory and a practical element, this will allow you to apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real world systems in an exciting and engaging manner. We have excellent facilities at Holy Cross, some of the best in the area.Your futureStudying and gaining a qualification in Computer Science will lead to major opportunities, either as a gateway into higher education or into a prosperous and successful career.The majority of our students go on to higher education, studying subjects which vary from the more traditional Computer Science courses to subjects like software development for the computer games industry.Career options are wide and varied for Computer Science graduates - the gaming industry alone is now bigger than the movie industry.
Entry requirements
General College entry requirements. Grade 4 or above in GCSE Maths.
What you will learn
You'll study how computers are used to solve a range of practical and theoretical problems.
You'll develop programming skills, writing and testing code to meet specific requirements.
You'll learn about computer systems, including hardware, software, and how they interact.
You'll explore data structures and algorithms, understanding how to organise and process information efficiently.
You'll study computational thinking, breaking down complex problems into logical steps.
You'll examine the social, ethical, and legal issues surrounding computing and technology.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at Holy Cross Sixth Form College, combining theory with practical programming work. Assessment is through written examinations and a programming project component, as set by WJEC. The project gives you the chance to apply your skills to a problem of your choice, while the exams test your understanding of computer science principles and theory.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Holy Cross Sixth Form College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Software developer: write and test code for applications and systems.
IT support technician: diagnose and resolve technical problems for users.
Data analyst: interpret data to support business decisions.
Network administrator: manage and maintain computer networks.
Cybersecurity analyst: protect systems and data from threats.
Web developer: build and maintain websites and web applications.
Systems analyst: assess and improve how organisations use technology.
What you could study next
BSc Computer Science (degree): the most direct next step, opening roles in software engineering, AI, and data science.
BSc Cyber Security (degree): specialist route into a fast-growing field.
BSc Software Engineering (degree): focused on building and maintaining large-scale systems.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Computing: a shorter higher-education route if you prefer a more applied path before committing to a full degree.
