Hear from Tom Wilkinson
Computer Science is a fast moving subject where new technologies appear all the time. The way we communicate with each other has changed dramatically as well as the size and power of the devices we use (our phones and computers) too. Computer Science will give you the opportunity to explore new technologies in the context of the methods of working that remain similar as well as the underlying mathematics of the algorithms that run our world today. We all use computers and their algorithms whether we are putting on the washing machine, setting our “sat-nav” or watching digital TV.
GCSE
Exam Board: AQA, GCSE Computer Science. There are two examinations of 1 hour and 30 minutes each.
Computer science is a very large subject with lots of applications. Computer scientists design new software, solve computing problems and develop different ways to use technology. During your GCSE studies, you will learn how computers work and how to program them to accomplish tasks. The study of computing is a great way to develop not just practical programming ability with computers, but also to develop critical and analytical thinking skills as well as problem-solving ability.
A Level
Exam Board: AQA, A Level Computer Science. There are two examination papers of 2 hours and 30 minutes and a programming piece of coursework.
Advanced level Computer Science provides an in-depth study of Computing, systems and related disciplines. It is not necessary to have any formal GCSE Computing experience in order to start this course although the experience gained at GCSE will give the pupil a significant head start. Aptitude for both Physics and Mathematics, and a capacity for logical thinking is however a good foundation. Obviously, some familiarity with computers in general is a good idea and more importantly an interest in the use of computers is essential.
Computer Science is not just about computers. Rather it is the study of computation and information, and is a subject which involves you in the very make-up of the world. Over the last 30 years it has transformed the way we run our everyday lives. It is the biggest skill shortage we have in the UK and can lead to jobs in almost any industry.
At Loughborough Grammar School we have tripled the specialist staff in the Computing department in the past 12 months. We have also invested in a new lab for GCSE and A-Level students. The incoming staff were from a school which was deemed to be in the top 10 in the country for Computer Science in 2018 and the curriculum has been recently revamped from KS3-KS5. There has never been a better time to study Computer Science at Loughborough Grammar School than now.
Computer Science can lead to so many different careers including Software Developer, Computer Hardware Engineer, Computer Systems Analyst, Computer Network Architect, Video Game Developer, Web Developer, Information Security Analyst, IT Project Manager and many more.
Enrichment Activities;
- Virtual reality club
- Code club
- Robotics club