Computer Science
at Durham Johnston Comprehensive School, Durham · school or sixth form
What the college says
Computer Science is a practical subject where students can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real world systems. It is an intensely creative subject that combines invention and excitement, and can look at the natural world through a digital prism. OCRs A Level in Computer Science will value computational thinking, helping students to develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand the power and limits of human and machine intelligence. Students will develop an ability to analyse, critically evaluate and make decisions. The project approach is a vital component of post-school life and is of particular relevance to Higher Education and the workplace. Each student is able to tailor their project to fit their individual needs, choices and aspirations. Course content - The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices Software and software development Exchanging data Data types, data structures and algorithms Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues Elements of computational thinking Problem solving and programming Algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms Students will choose a computing problem to work through according to the guidance in the specification. 1. Analysis of the problem 2. Design of the solution 3. Developing the solution 4. Evaluation
What you need to get on
At least GCSE grade 6 in Maths and Computer Science if taken. Students who do not have GCSE but can demonstrate exceptional interest in pursuing A Level Computer Science must produce a portfolio of work and arrange an interview with a member of the Computing department. For continuation to Year 13 grades in Year 12 Computer Science need to demonstrate potential for A Level success.
How you are assessed
Academic subjects, mostly exams, three or four at once. The traditional route to university.
What this level means
The A-level-equivalent step, and what universities and employers ask for.
Is it open to 16 to 18 year olds?
Approved for 16 to 18 study on the government's Section 96 list.
Where it runs
Durham Johnston School
Crossgate Moor, Durham, DH1 4SU
DaytimeClassroom basedCheck the journey
Start dates
- 3 September 2026 · Durham
Who else teaches this exact qualification
Same qualification, different college. Entry requirements and how it is taught can differ a lot between them, which is the whole reason to compare.
- Their version
North West · 24 months
- Their version
Yorkshire and The Humber · 2 years
- Their version
School of Science and Technology Maidstone
South East · 2 years
- Their version
North West · 2 years
- Their version
Kendal · North West · 2 years
- Their version
East of England · 2 years
- Their version
Harrow · London · 9 months
- Their version
Rochester · South East · 2 years