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Computer Science A Level

Thomas Rotherham College (TRC)

Moorgate Road, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, S60 2BE

GCE A/AS Level or Equivalent

Level 3

Available start dates

Tuesday, 01 September 2026

Thomas Rotherham College

2 Year(s)

Full time

Daytime/working hours

Course Summary

This two year course looks at how large and small computer systems are designed, developed and installed and gives practical experience of developing computer programs.

Course Details

This is a linear qualification so Components 1, 2 and 3 will be delivered across the Lower and Upper Sixth.

· Component 1: A written paper which investigates programs, data structures, algorithms, logic, programming methodologies and the impact of computer science on society (40%, 2 hours 45 minutes).

· Component 2: A written paper which investigates computer architecture, communication, data representation, organisation and structure of data, programs, algorithms and software applications (40% 2 hours 45 minutes).

· Component 3: This is the practical module of the course. A substantial piece of practical work in which you will discuss, investigate, design, prototype, refine and implement, test and evaluate a computerised solution to a problem of your choice. C++ will be used as the programming language – no prior experience of this language is required. (20%).

Enrichment Opportunities

Students will benefit from access to support during daily lunchtime sessions in the Computer Science classroom. Help and support are also available via Teams and e-mail outside of college hours. Throughout the course there will be opportunities to listen to guest speakers along with potential visits to universities and employers.

How will it be delivered and assessed?

This is a two-year course leading to a full A-Level qualification. The qualification is entirely assessed at the end of Year 13. The practical work is assessed by coursework which is internally marked and externally moderated. Programming tasks will be undertaken using C++ via Visual Studio. Students will be provided with the software to install for use at home. Access to a Windows-based PC at home is highly recommended.

Entry requirements

Grade 6 Maths. If Computer Science is taken at GCSE a minimum of a grade 5 is required. Grade 4 English Language

Your next steps...

This course could lead onto higher education in areas of Computing and ICT or more general higher education courses as the course offers skills that are useful in lots of subjects. With further training you could go into a job directly related to Computing such as a Computer Programmer, ICT Technician, Network Manager, Website Developer, Data Analyst, IT Consultant and Information Systems Manager.

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