Computer Science is a practical subject where students can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real-world systems. It’s an intensely creative subject that combines invention and excitement, and can look at the natural world through a digital prism. The aims of this qualification are to enable students to develop: • An understanding and ability to apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including: abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation • The ability to analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems, including writing programs to do so • The capacity to think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically • The capacity to see relationships between different aspects of computer science • Mathematical skills. Students studying A Level Computer Science will value computational thinking, helping them to develop the skills needed 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 Further Education, Higher Education and the workplace. Each student is able to tailor their project to fit their individual needs, choices and aspirations within a rigorous assessment structure that ensures the integrity of the project.