Computer Science
Computer Science at The Perse Sixth Form explores the subject that is shaping the modern world more than any other. From artificial intelligence and software development to data science and algorithms, students develop the skills to understand, create and innovate in a digital age. A few lines of code can reach millions of people, and a single student with a laptop can build applications, solve complex problems and create technologies with global impact.
Learning through coding and computational thinking
Computer Science combines practical programming with the study of the theories and systems that underpin modern technology. Students develop skills in coding, computational thinking, algorithm design and problem-solving, learning how to analyse complex challenges and create effective digital solutions.
The course provides excellent preparation for students interested in technology, while also supporting subjects such as Mathematics, Engineering, Economics and the sciences. As computing increasingly shapes every profession and industry, Computer Science develops skills that are valuable across a wide range of academic and career pathways.
Learning beyond the specification
Students are encouraged to extend their learning beyond the A level curriculum through a range of competitions, societies and leadership opportunities. Many take part in the Bebras Computational Thinking Challenge and the British Informatics Olympiad, testing their programming and problem-solving skills against some of the most talented young computer scientists in the country.
Students can also join the Programming Society, contribute to computing activities across the school and take on prefect responsibilities supporting Lower and Middle School computing clubs. These opportunities help students develop leadership, communication and mentoring skills alongside their technical expertise.
An annual Year 12 visit to the Centre for Computing History in Cambridge provides valuable insight into the development of computing and the technologies that continue to shape the modern world.
University preparation and future pathways
Computer Science develops highly transferable skills in computational thinking, programming, logical reasoning and problem-solving. These skills provide excellent preparation for university courses in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence and related disciplines.
The subject is increasingly relevant across almost every sector, as careers in business, finance, healthcare, engineering, scientific research and technology continue to be transformed by computing and automation.
Recent highlights
Computer Science students consistently achieve outstanding A level results and regularly participate in national competitions. Perse students compete in the British Informatics Olympiad, with one student reaching the highly competitive national final in recent years as one of only 15 finalists nationally.
The department’s strong culture of coding, computational thinking and problem-solving encourages students to challenge themselves beyond the classroom while preparing for some of the most exciting and rapidly evolving university courses and careers.
Assessment details
Examinations at the end of the Upper Sixth together with a non-examined programming project.
The examining board is AQA.