GCSE Computer Science is an engaging and practical course covering some of the most important concepts of 21st century living. The course is a blend of theoretical studies (50%) and practical code development (50%).

The GCSE is split into the following six topics covered in two exams, one written and one on-screen:

• Computational thinking – understanding of what algorithms are, what they are used for and how they work; ability to follow, amend and write algorithms; ability to construct truth tables.
• Data – understanding of binary, data representation, data storage and compression.
• Computers – understanding of hardware and software components of computer systems and characteristics of programming languages.
• Networks – understanding of computer networks and network security.
• Issues and impact – awareness of emerging trends in computing technologies, and the impact of computing on individuals, society and the environment, including ethical, legal and ownership issues.
• Algorithms – understanding what algorithms are, what they are used for and how they work in relation to creating programs; understanding how to decompose and analyse problems; and the ability to read, write, refine and evaluate programs in Python.

This qualification gives pupils a solid understanding of the technologies that shape 21st century living. The course is  very well suited to tenacious, persevering learners who have a passion for problem-solving and coding. It can lead into A-Level Computer Science and is a worthy pursuit of anyone pursuing a wide variety of careers.

Assessment:
Paper 1:

Principles of Computer Science (Theory) – 2 hours on paper.  50% of the qualification

Paper 2:

Application of Computational Thinking (Coding) – 2 hours on the computer.  50% of the qualification

Examination Board: EDEXCEL IGCSE
Specification: 1CP2

Mr C. Coetzee – Head of Computer Science & Digital Learning