Computer Science

GCSE Computer Science allows students to study a mixture of theory (in order to understand the enduring principles and abstract concepts of computer science), and computational thinking and practice (to learn how to solve problems, write efficient code and build working systems). It provides opportunities for students to explore the wider social and ethical issues associated with computer science and to develop as responsible practitioners. This course is best suited to students who enjoy coding, developing computer programs and learning about the theoretical side of computers and the importance they play in our digital world. In this digital world, qualifications in IT and Computer Science are becoming essential. The OCR Computer Science course is a stepping stone towards that.

Process

The GCSE Computer Science qualification is split into three components of practical programming, computational thinking and computing fundamentals: 

Component 1 - Computer Systems (50% of qualification)
The first component is an exam focused on computer systems covering the physical elements of Computer Science and the associated theory 

Component 2 - Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming (50% of qualification)
This component is focused on the core theory of computer science and the application of Computer Science principles

Component 3 - Programming Project
This component is a non-assessed project where candidates will be challenged by a range of exciting and engaging tasks to apply the knowledge and skills they have learned

Post-16 Choices
Students may progress on to study A-Level Computer Science where they can further develop their computational thinking and programming skill sets. Computer Science as a subject is looked upon highly by many universities and is highly regarded by Russell Group universities for many of their more academic subjects such as Medicine, Physics and of course Computer Science.

Staff Contact
Mr L Turner - lee.turner@oxted.thpt.org.uk