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Home > Courses > A Level Computer Science
Business and IT A-Level For 16-19 Year Olds

A Level Computer Science

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COURSE OVERVIEW

Python, along with the Pygame library, is the main programming language taught throughout the course, giving you a strong foundation in coding and problem-solving. You’ll also have the opportunity to take part in our Digital Academy, which explores exciting topics beyond the specification to broaden your skills and interests in Computer Science.

EXAMINATION BOARD: OCR

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

Standard college entry requirements plus grade 5 in GCSE maths and grade 4 in GCSE English Language. An interest in programming and a general aptitude for problem-solving.

Why study A Level Computer Science at Blackpool Sixth?

Python, Visual Basic and C# are the programming languages of choice embedded into the curriculum. You will also have access to the 6Advance programming club to help enhance your programming skills.

How will I be taught?

Component 1 covers the core content of the specification and is assessed through a written exam. Lessons combine theory with practical activities, including opportunities for group work and discussion.

Component 2 focuses on developing problem-solving skills. You’ll learn how to apply the knowledge and understanding gained in Component 1 to tackle challenging computational problems.

Component 3 (Programming Project) is a practical, portfolio-based assessment. You’ll design and develop a project in Python (or language of your choice), choosing a task that matches your interests and allows you to showcase your coding and analytical skills.

Teacher expertise

Mac has experience in programming and developing applications. He has experience marking for the exam board and a degree in Computer Science and Internet Design. 

What skills will I develop?

  • A strong understanding of the core principles of Computer Science, including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms, and data representation.
  • The ability to analyse and solve problems in computational terms through hands-on programming experience.
  • Creative, innovative, analytical, logical, and critical thinking skills that can be applied both in and beyond computing.
  • Enhanced mathematical skills to support problem-solving and algorithmic thinking.
  • The ability to evaluate and discuss the moral, social, ethical, legal, and cultural opportunities and challenges of digital technology in modern society.
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How will I be assessed?

  • Component 1 – Computer Systems Exam - 40%
  • Component 2 – Algorithms and Programming Exam - 40%
  • Component 3 – Programming Project (NEA/Coursework) - 20%

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What will you study and other information about A LEVEL Computer science

  • What will I study?Plus buttonMinus button
    • Component 1 – Computer Systems – Software development, data types, structures, algorithms, legal issues.
    • Component 2 – Algorithms and programming – Computational thinking, problem-solving and programming, algorithms to solve problems.
    • Component 3 – Programming project – the learner will choose a computing problem to work through according to the guidance in the specification; analysis; design; development and evaluation.

  • A windows laptop or macbook is preferred over a chromebook.

    • Digital Academy
    • Sheffield Video Game Museum
    • BAE
    • University of Lancaster

Where does it lead?

Students willing to take computing further usually end up studying a computer science related degree course at university. Some students may choose to go straight into industry with fantastic apprenticeship opportunities with various employers ranging from BAE Systems to Capgemini.

Helping you to find your dream career

Blackpool Sixth is dedicated to helping students achieve their future goals. We offer support to our students to help them find the best path for their chosen career.

To see how this course links to career pathways and to career academies which you could join, click the links below.

Related career pathways

Our Alumni

KITTY HARRIS

• BTEC Music

After completing her studies, talented musician and performer Kitty Harris went on to study Musical Theatre at UCLan, where she continued to develop her skills and passion for performance.
Her career highlights already include exciting roles such as ‘Cinderella’ in the Grand Theatre’s Pantomime, ‘Standby Ali’ in @burlesquethemusicaluk, and ‘Young Heather’ in @greatest_days.

luke moore

• BTEC Performing Arts – Musical Theatre

Luke Moore, achieved an outstanding Triple Distinction* in Performing Arts. He is currently touring the UK with Cirque – The Greatest Show and plans to audition for top London performing arts colleges, aiming for a future career in the West End.

Daniel millard

• BTEC Dance
• BTEC Performing Arts
• A Level Drama

Daniel Millard, graduated with First Class Honours from the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts (LIPA). Since then, he has performed as a dancer at Eurovision and as a production dancer for P&O Cruises.

KENZIE NODWELL

• A Level Fine Art
• A Level Graphic Design
• A Level Photography

Kenzie Nodwell, achieved A* grades in all three art subjects at Blackpool Sixth. She’s now continuing her creative journey at the University of Central Lancashire, studying Illustration.

Jenny higgins

• BTEC FASHION, DESIGN AND MARKETING
• A LEVEL PHOTOGRAPHY

Jenny Higgins studied at Blackpool Sixth before earning a First-Class Honours degree in Fashion Marketing from Leeds Beckett University. Now Head of Marketing at The Travel Village Group, she combines creativity and sustainability, recognised nationally as one of TTG Media’s 30 Under 30 for 2025.

Linda Copeland

Teacher of BTEC Art and Design

Mel Evans

Visual Arts Technician

ross allan

Teacher of BTEC Art and Design

Sarah Johnson

Teacher of BTEC Fashion Design, Promotion and Marketing

Gemma Lea

Teacher of BTEC Fashion Design, Promotion and Marketing and BTEC Art and Design

Alice Tomlinson

Teacher of A Level Photography

Lindsay dickinson

Assistant Head Of Visual Arts
Teacher of A Level Art: Fine Art and A Level Art, Craft and Design

Laura Goodinson

Assistant Head of Visual Arts
Teacher of A Level Graphic Design

Lucinda Campbell


Head of Performing Arts, Music and Media Teacher of Performing Arts, Dance and Musical Theatre

Michael Handley

Assistant Head of Performing Arts, Music and Media
Teacher of A Level Film Studies and A Level Media Studies

Olivia Hylins

Teacher of Performing Arts, Dance and Musical Theatre

ASH GOODINSON

Teacher of A Level Music Technology and BTEC Music

Lewis Williams

Assistant Head of Performing Arts, Music and Media
Teacher of BTEC Film and TV Production

John Stevens

Teacher of BTEC Music

Helen Twist

Teacher of A Level Media Studies and Level 2 Creative Digital Media

Charlie Moore

Teacher of BTEC Film and TV Production

Lisa Carolan

Teacher of Musical Theatre

Sarah Mistry

Teacher of Performing Arts and A Level Drama and Theatre Studies

Joseph Wylie

Lead Theatre Technician

Rob Yeo

Theatre and Music Technician

JESSE MOSELEY

• FOUNDATION PROGRAMME
• BTEC FILM AND TELEVISION

Jesse Moseley began on the Foundation Programme before progressing to the Level 3 BTEC Film and Television Production, where she achieved a Triple Distinction*.
Jesse is now continuing her studies at Escape Studios (accredited by Coventry University), focusing on the Art of Visual Effects.

LUKE MOORE

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ELAINE DAVIES

Head Of Visual Arts
Teacher of A Level Art: Textiles and Level 2 Creative Skills

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