A Level Computing (OCR)
What they will learn
Computer science:
- Has a focus on programming, building on our GCSE Computing and emphasise the importance of computational thinking as a discipline.
- Has an expanded maths focus, much of which will be embedded within the course.
- Puts computational thinking at its core, helping students to develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand human and machine intelligence.
- Allows student to apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real world systems in an exciting and engaging manner.
- Gives students a clear progression into higher education, as the course was designed after consultation with members of BCS, CAS and top universities.
How they will be assessed
All assessment takes place at the end of year 13. There are 3 assessments as follows
- Computer systems – 140 marks – 2 hours and 30 minutes written paper
- Algorithms and programming – 140 marks – 2 hours and 30 minutes written paper
- Programming project – 70 marks – Coursework
Level 3 – Cambridge Technical Foundation Diploma in IT
The Cambridge Technical qualifications in both IT and Digital Media aim to ensure students are occupationally ready to take up employment in the IT and digital media fields at the appropriate level. Digital media units will give learners an understanding of how different media institutions operate to create products that appeal to specific target audiences. They’ll gain knowledge and understanding of the pre-production, planning and production processes and go on to create a media product. Through this learners will also develop transferable skills such as planning, communication, adaptability and leadership.
IT units follow an application developer pathway. They will enhance a learner’s knowledge, skills and understanding with respect to the development of specifications and the designing, building, testing and implementation of applications. Learners will leave with a good understanding of the issues surrounding cyber security and will be able to incorporate solutions into their designs to minimise risk.
Typical job roles within this pathway include; Web Application Developer, Software Engineer, Mobile Application Developer, Application Developer or Software Analyst. It could also provide a route to a higher education media-related programme such as Digital Media, Media Production, Media and Communications, Journalism and Media, Digital Marketing.
What will they learn?
By studying this qualification, learners will develop knowledge, understanding and skills required by the IT and Digital Media sector. They will be able to operate at a standard that can be expected of an 18year in full-time education. Learners will study an array of different units including: Across both course you will complete projects that include: Comic book creation and design, Social media and Digital Marketing, Game design and development, Web development, Cyber Security, Fundamentals of IT, Pre production and planning of Media Products.
How will it be assessed?
Learners will be both internally and externally assessed. Internal assessment will take place through coursework based units. Across both IT and Digital Media, learners will complete 12 coursework units over the two years. In addition to this, learners will need to complete 5 externally assessed exams.
Learners are required to evidence their knowledge, understanding and skills through a variety of ways including written reports, posters, presentations and observation. This is recognised by universities and allows learners to progress to further education as required.
Exam board
OCR
