Computer Science

Edexcel GCSE in Computer Science has been developed in response to a number of recent initiatives aimed at promoting computer science as a rigorous, knowledge-based subject discipline that should be part of every young person’s education.

Students are introduced to core principles of computer science and develop skills in problem solving and computational thinking. This builds on skills learned in Key Stages 1 to 3 in Computing while also ensuring that students new to the subject are appropriately supported. Following on from more visual programming environments, programming skills are further developed using high-level textual programming languages such as Python.

The aims and objectives of this qualification are to enable students to understand and apply principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation. Students will also analyse problems in computational terms by designing, writing and debugging programs. They will understand the components that make up computer systems, how they communicate with one another and with other systems. Students will also apply mathematical skills relevant to computer science.

Paper 1: Principles of Computer Science

Written examination: 1 hour and 30 minutes (50% of the qualification)

Paper 2: Application of Computational Thinking

On Screen examination: 2 hours (50% of the qualification)

Due to the technical content of this course it is recommended that you are working at above age related expectations in Maths.

• Internal computer components

• Cyber security

• Data representation

• Effect of digital technology on society

• Programming

• Networking and the Internet

• Software development

Students develop generic skills in logic and problem solving suitable for many technical industries and technical courses.

Students will also develop concepts which are useful in other subjects they are studying such as mathematics, science and engineering.

The rigorous approach of the subject will support a transition to the next level of work or study in areas of Computer Science such as games design, software development or Engineering.