Computer Science
skills for the real world
The Computer Science department is a vibrant place where students can engage in a practical way with the latest developments in computer technology.
It is the aim of the department to ensure that all students acquire the practical skills that will make them employable in the real world, increasing their choice of opportunities when they leave the College.
A-level Computer Science is an exciting and dynamic subject and students are encouraged to develop an understanding of the principles of problem solving, the range of applications and the effects of their use in order to develop computer based solutions. Students will also develop an understanding of systems analysis, design and methods of implementation, testing and documentation.
Our Computer Science A-level course follows the OCR specifications. Although only 20% of the final marks are awarded for coursework, it is a highly practical course and we teach beyond the limits of the syllabus.
Hurst has a specialist Sixth Form computer suite of 14 computers, each set up with a wide range of software to enable students to fulfil all of their computing projects.
Co-curricular opportunities
Students are encouraged to produce projects beyond the taught curriculum. Teachers are available to assist students to further develop their skills and expertise in a range of computing projects. In the past these have included game creation, website design and graphics. Some of our students have worked on smartphone apps and had them published in the Apple Store.
Higher Education and career opportunities
In recent years, Hurst students have gained places to read Computer Science at some of the UK’s top universities, including Cambridge, St Andrew’s and Loughborough.
With a qualification in Computer Science students may choose to continue their studies in higher education establishments. Many universities now offer joint honours courses which contain computing and just about every other subject. There are an increasing number of opportunities for students who leave with an A-level in Computer Science, with many furthering their studies at universities, by taking a single honours degree in Computing or joint honours with another subject, ranging from Engineering to Economics or Business Studies.
With a large proportion of project work and the emphasis on the use of internet technologies, students with an A-level in Computer Science are also in a strong position to find themselves a career in the industry without going to university.