Computer Science

A-Level Subjects

Computer Science
Department

Computer Science

A level Board/code

AQA

AS Code: 7516

A Level Code: 7517

What do we cover in the course?

Key syllabus elements

The Computer Science syllabus covers:

  • Programming – Data types, arithmetic operations, relational operations, boolean operations, constants and variables, string-handling operations, random-number generation, exception handling, subroutines, global variables, structured programming
  • Data structures – arrays, fields, files and records
  • Problem solving – Analysis, design, implementation, testing and evaluation
  • Theory of computation – Abstraction and automation, finite state machines
  • Fundamentals of algorithms – Problem-solving, writing algorithms, abstraction, decomposition, automation, finite state machines
  • Data representation – Number systems, number bases, binary number system, information coding systems, representing images, sound and other data, data compression and encryption
  • Computer systems – Hardware and software, operating systems, programming languages, program translators, logic gates, boolean algebra
  • Organisation and architecture – Internal hardware components, the stored programme concept, structure and role of the processor, external hardware devices
  • Consequences of computing – Individual, social, legal and cultural issues and opportunities
  • Communication and networking – Communication methods and basics, network topologies and wireless networking
  • Computing practical project using a systematic approach to problem solving
How is it assessed?

Key assessment elements

AS 

1h30m On-screen exam testing programming and theoretical ability

50% of the overall AS grade

1h30m written exam covering knowledge of the overall course content.

50% of the overall AS grade

A Level 

2h30m On-screen exam testing programming and theoretical ability

40% of the overall A Level grade

2h30m written exam covering knowledge of the overall course content.

40% of the overall A Level grade

Computing practical project

20% of the overall A Level grade

Key skills required

You should enjoy and be good at understanding logical processes and solving mathematical problems. Also important in this subject is communicating effectively in speech and writing and planning your own learning.

What entry requirements are there to study this course?

A GCSE in ICT or Computer Science would be preferred, but is not mandatory.

What is the course useful for?

Students often go on to careers connected with IT, including System or database administration.

Training or teaching others to use computer systems

Systems analyst / programmer

Software engineer

Our Students

Barbara Bielecka (A*, A*, A), Class of 2017

“I would like to thank everyone at CTC for their help, support and encouragement during my time there. Today I received two A*s and one A, and I am extremely thrilled and proud of this result. The support that all of my tutors gave me was vital to my success and I would like to thank them all for motivating me to be the best that I could be. I will never forget my time at CTC. I wish you and the college all the best! I hope to come in soon and visit you once more. Thank you once again!” Barbara achieved 2 A* and 1 A grade in Government and Politics, History and Mathematics and will be continuing her studies reading History at LSE
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Barbara Bielecka
Class of 2017

Nhi Kieu (A, B, B), Class of 2017

“I am proud to report that I am going to be a fresher at Nottingham University this September! Thank you so much for all your teaching and support for the past two years. Had it not been for your help, I would never have achieved the grades I need in Economics, something I never thought I would be able to reach. Again, please accept my immense gratitude for you and the college.”
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Nhi Kieu
Class of 2017

Mr. David O'Dwyer (Head of Government and Politics)

“There is a very positive and supportive ethos in the college which supports academic learning, enrichment and development. Tutors work with a great deal of professional autonomy and the students are hardworking, mature and respectful. There is a fascinating mix amongst the cohort of home-based and international students, and the relations between staff and students are harmonious.”
Mr. David O'Dwyer
Head of Government and Politics

Economics Tutor

“The opportunity to engage with such a diverse international cohort of students has been a truly wonderful experience. I’ve loved working with a small group of motivated and friendly students that are the hallmark of CTC London and celebrating the students’ success as they proceed onwards on their academic journeys.”
Economics Tutor

Mrs. Suthantirakumar

“Students at CTC London are so dedicated to succeed and are a pleasure to teach because of this. The teaching staff here are wonderful and really connect with the students enabling them to truly reach their potential.”
Mrs. Suthantirakumar
Biology

Mathematics Tutor

“CTC is an amazing place to work and has given me the opportunity to develop both personally and professionally. The small class sizes and the friendly atmosphere really promote an excellent environment for me to pass my knowledge on and truly get the full potential from each of our students!”
Mathematics Tutor

Mr Barry Morgan (Art & Design)

“The benefit of small classes cannot be overstated, it allows students to have lots of contact time with their tutors, especially in my subject where every student is following their own personal pathway, allowing them to be thoroughly stretched and achieve their full potential”
Mr Barry Morgan
Art & Design

History Tutor

“Cambridge Tutors College is an excellent institution where students can really progress their education to the next level. Teaching in classes of around six students really helps us develop these young students in on an individual level. I only wish I found CTC London 30 years ago!”
History Tutor
CEO

Chulin Meng (Lucy)

One thing I appreciated was CTC’s unique, friendly learning atmosphere, I was surrounded by a society where everyone is passionate for studying and eager to learn new things. I found the experience truly enjoyable, and studying there was definitely one of the best experiences in my life, I am grateful for what all my tutors did. I would recommend Cambridge Tutors College to people who looking for a place where dreams would come true.
Chulin Meng (Lucy)

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