Computer Science - A Level (AQA) - CCCG
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Computer Science - A Level (AQA)

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Start Date: 1 September 2025
Centre: Kings Cross
Attendance: Full Time
Duration: 2 Years
Level: Level 3
Most suitable for: 16 - 18

ABOUT THE COURSE

AS/A Level Computer Science is an exciting but demanding subject that will help you develop an analytical, problem-solving approach, which is sometimes called 'computational thinking’. The course will equip you with the fundamentals of problem-solving, which you will put into practice by developing computer programs using Python. It is crucial that you spend time every week developing your programming skills outside lessons. In the second year of the course, you will undertake a significant programming project which you will choose yourself. 

You will learn about the computer as an electronic device, and some of the core fundamentals of computing such as logic gates, Boolean algebra and number bases. Networks and internet technologies such as encryption are important areas of the course, and you will learn both the underlying theory and recent developments in this fast-changing area. You will also learn about some of the ways that computer technology has made an impact on society. 

WHAT WILL I STUDY?

From the start of the course, you will learn the fundamentals of problem solving which you will put into practice by developing computer programs using Visual Basic. NET. Programming is creative and satisfying but demanding, especially when you are learning it for the first time. 

It is crucial that you spend time every week developing your programming skills outside lessons. You will learn about the computer as an electronic device, and some of the core fundamentals of computing such as logic gates, Boolean algebra and number bases. Networks and internet technologies such as encryption are important areas of Computer Science and you will learn both the underlying theory and recent developments in this fast-changing area. You will also learn about some of the ways that computer technology has made an impact on society. 

In the second year of the course, you will undertake a significant programming project which you will choose yourself. It is strongly recommended that you do some computer programming to help you decide if the subject is right for you, as programming is a very large component of the course. Any language will do, for example, Python, Visual Basic, Java or C#. (Although HTML is useful and fun, it is not strictly a programming language). 

WHAT WILL I NEED?

You will need:

  • Three GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including Maths and English Language, plus two further GCSEs at grade 4
  • Grade 5 or above in GCSE Computer Science or a similar subject - if you did not achieve a grade 5, you will need to pass an aptitude test before enrolment. If you did not study GCSE Computer Science, we recommend studying Maths, Science or Economics alongside Computer Science.
  • A reference from your previous school/college

All applicants must have an interview to confirm that A Levels are suitable for them.

We recommend that you do some computer programming in Python, Visual Basic, Java or C# to help you decide if the subject is right for you, as programming is a very large component of the course.

Please be aware that as this subject includes coursework, as well as a public exam set by the exam board, you will only be permitted to have a choice of one other subject which includes coursework. Your third subject choice must be an exam-only assessed subject. For example, you would not be permitted to take Computer Science, History and Media Studies as these all include coursework.

When applying for an A Level programme at Westminster Kingsway, please refer to the general entry requirements on our A Level Courses page as well as the subject-specific details listed above.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

Assessment is by final exam and coursework, and will test both your underlying knowledge of computing and your problem-solving skills.

WHAT WILL IT COST?

Aged 16-18


If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31st August prior to the start date of your course and you have the legal right to remain in the UK for the duration of your programme then your study with us will be free. Please see here for the documents you will need to show us.

Some courses will have other associated costs, such as for specialist materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support, see here for details.

WHAT CAN I DO AFTER?

This AS Level course offers progression to the second year of the A-Level programme.

A Levels are widely regarded as the standard entry qualification for top universities in the UK, and the rest of the world. Many of our students go on to study for a degree at the university of their choice, with some choosing to progress into apprenticeships or other employment.

MEET SOME OF THE TEACHERS

Click here to see some of the teachers that teach A Levels at the college

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Capital City College Group
211 Gray’s Inn Road
King’s Cross
London
WC1X 8RA
United Kingdom
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