Computer Science

In Computer Science students create computer programs, build computer games, learn how a computer operates, build websites, learn to use a computer in a safe manner and develop their digital literacy skills.

Key Stage 3

Our Computer Science curriculum is both fun and stretching, covering aspects of Computer Science, digital literacy and creativity. The areas of study offer students broad experiences within the subject area. Over the course of Key Stage 3, students will have experienced and studied many different areas of Computer Science to give them a taste of what the subject entails.

Students study Computer Science for 45 minutes a week in Years 7, 8 and 9.

Assessment

Students sit end of topic tests or submit folders for formal marking.

Key Stage 4

Students can select to study OCR GCSE Computer Science in Key Stage 4 or Cambridge Nationals in IT.

OCR Computer Science

Link to exam board’s web page for qualification here.

Builds on the foundation of knowledge acquired at Key Stage 3 and is intensely practical in nature. This qualification is assessed through two theory based examinations and one controlled assessment.

Students develop programming skills throughout the course in preparation to complete a controlled assessment during Year 11. This is a substantial project of 20 hours in duration. Topics are chosen from a range set by the examination board, but in recent years students have designed and developed programs such as complex calculators, hangman games, arithmetic quizzes and technical trouble-shooters.

As part of the theory based examination, students study many key topic areas; Systems Architecture, Networking and Protocols, Systems Security, Systems Software, Computational Thinking, Programming Techniques, Computational Logic, Data Representation and Ethical, Legal, Cultural and Environmental Concerns.

Unit 1 Exam: Computer systems – This unit covers the body of knowledge about computer systems on which the examination will be based. 1 hour 30 minutes written paper (50%)

Unit 2 Exam: Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming – This unit covers the data representation and computational logic and programming techniques. 1 hour 30 minutes written paper (50%)

OCR Level 1/Level 2 Cambridge National in IT (taught from 2025)

Link to exam board’s web page for qualification here.

Cambridge National IT  students will complete the following units:

R050:              IT in the Digital world

R060:              Data manipulation using spreadsheets

R070:              Using Augmented reality to present information

Exam board               OCR

Assessment:  R050 is a written paper – 1 hour, 30 minutes, worth 80 marks. The remaining two units are Controlled Assessments which are internally marked then go through external moderation. R050 unit is worth 40%, R60 30% and R070 30%.

Key Stage 5

OCR A level Computer Science

https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-and-a-level/computer-science-h046-h446-from-2015/

Course Aims

The course develops a range of skills, from requirements analysis and the design of algorithms through to implementation using a range of programming techniques. The course is excellent preparation for anyone looking to take Computer Science at degree level, or for anyone considering any kind of career in computing or related engineering or creative industries. Computer Science is a practical subject where you can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real-world systems. Through this qualification, you can develop:

• The capacity to think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically
• An understanding of the design and construction of computer systems
• The ability to apply computational thinking in a range of contexts to solve problems
• An appreciation of the power and limits of human and machine intelligence.
• An understanding of the consequences of using computers, an awareness of emerging technologies and an appreciation of their potential impact on society.

Future Pathways

This course is ideal for those wishing to follow a career in the field of Technology, Engineering or Design, for example; Aeronautical Engineer, Electronics Engineer, Software Engineer, Computer Programmer, Computer Analyst, Games Designer, etc. The qualification could also lead to Apprenticeship programmes or vocational courses at Colleges to further specialise in networking, telecoms and mobile devices, games design etc. Computer Science and Engineering are expected to continue as major growth industries, with many new positions created each year. A-level Computing combines well with Maths, Sciences and Business options, but also with creative subjects.

Computer Science A-Level is a practical subject where students can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real world systems. We study a range of topics including programming, problem solving, hardware architecture, software development, data structures and algorithms.

What units do we teach?

Unit 1: Computer systems

This covers the characteristics of contemporary systems architecture; software and software development; exchanging data; data types, data structures and algorithms; and legal, ethical, moral and cultural issues.

Unit 2: Algorithms and Programming

This covers elements of computational thinking, programming techniques, software development methodologies and standard algorithms. A scenario will be given and you will be asked to design an appropriate solution.

Unit 3: Programming project

Through coursework, you will gain an understanding of definition, investigation and analysis, system design, software development and testing and evaluating. Your project will be of your own choice, assessed internally and moderated by an external examiner.

Assessment overview

Unit 1: Computer systems 2 hours and 30 minutes written paper 40% of total A Level
Unit 2: Algorithms and programming 2 hours and 30 minutes written paper 40% of total A Level
Unit 3: Programming project 20% of total A levelThree coursework units:

There are a range of optional units which can be studied during this year. These will be practical, hands on units, using a range of software including website development, game and app development.

Cambridge Advanced National in Computing: Application Development – H029, H129

https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/cambridge-advanced-nationals/computing-application-development-level-3-h029-h129/

Course Aims

Application development Cambridge advanced National at Beaumont School is a popular option. This course has been developed to recognise learners’ skills, knowledge and understanding of Computing and Information technology sectors. The study programme is less theoretical than A Level Computer science, with greater emphasis placed on the acquisition of a full range of skills, through the study of realistic IT and Computing contexts including: Website, App, game development and user interface design.

What units do we teach?

There are a range of optional units which can be studied during this year. These will be practical, hands on units, using a range of software including website development, game and app development.

Assessment overview

Two Exam units:
Unit 1 – Fundamentals of Application development. Unit 2 – Developing Application software. Both units are written exams with a combination of multiple choice and long answer questions.

Extra-curricular enrichment

KS3 Coding club
Yearly tips to Bletchley park and the National Computing museum.

Stretch & Challenge

The Computer Science faculty aims to enrich students learning beyond the classroom. We have developed close links with the University of Hertfordshire Computer Science faculty, as well as other companies and organisations.

Where can Computer Science take you?

How parents can support their child’s learning

Useful links

Twitter: @BeauCompSci

To see the frequently asked questions, please click here