Computing

Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate is keen to stay up-to-date with the forefront of technology.

Computing or Computer Science is offered in Key Stage Four and Five to study as a GCSE, BTEC or A Level. You can also broaden your creative or gaming computer skills by taking Esport, 3D Design, Graphic Communication or Creative Digital Media Production.

Key Stage Four

The Computer Science GCSE explores the principles of digital technology and a way of working that is called ‘computational thinking’, with coding at the core of the course.

The course covers the understanding of algorithms, binary representations, components of computing systems and awareness of emerging trends in computing technologies.

You can study Computer Science GCSE at QE College and QE Faculty.

“I chose computer science because I think it can be really useful in the future. As the world is advancing programming skills become more and more relevant and I think GCSE Computer Science can help me develop these skills. 

I really enjoy the practical programming aspect of the course. I think it’s really cool how we are able to create, test and use our own programmes for things in the real world.”

Key Stage Five

Depending on which school you choose to attend, you can either take a Computer Science A Level (available at QE College) or Computing BTEC (available at QE Faculty). 

The Computer Science A Level continues from the GCSE course. The A Level is a practical subject where you can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real world systems. It is an intensely creative subject that combines invention and excitement to look at the natural world through a digital prism. 

“One of the many reasons why I love and chose computer science is because of the endless possibilities of things you can create, and problems you can solve with code. I especially like the hardware and networking aspects of the course too, as they allow you to gain a deeper understanding of how the world works.”

Alternatively, you can study Computing as a Level 3 BTEC. The course covers the principles of computer science, computer systems, IT systems, security and encryption and computer game development. This is an exciting course that applies computing to careers in business, gaming or IT. We recommend that you take Computing alongside the Esport BTEC. 

“BTEC Computing is an excellent course, I especially like the unit on cyber security and encryption.”