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Faculty: Creative & Technical
Subject: BTEC Level 3 in Computer Science
Subject Leader: Mr Barton, Head of Faculty
Staff and Responsibility: Mr J Green & Mr A Homer, Teacher of Computer Science
Exam Board: Edexcel: BTEC LEVEL 3 National Extended Certificate in Computing
ASSESSMENT FORMAT
Year 12
- Unit 2 Fundamentals of Computer Systems (Examination)
- Unit 7 IT Systems Security and Encryption
Year 13
- Unit 1 Principles of Computer Science (Examination)
- Unit 17 Mobile Apps Development
SUBJECT OVERVIEW
The course allows students to develop their knowledge and skills in computer science and computer systems. The qualification is designed for students interested in learning about the computing sector alongside other fields of study. The content of this qualification incorporates the most up-to-date knowledge and skills to enable progression to higher education or employment.
Learners will study:
- The principles that underpin all areas of computer science, developing computational thinking skills and applying those to solve problems.
- The fundamental principles of how computer systems work, including the role of hardware and software, the way components in a system work together and how data in a system is used.
- IT system security threats and the methods to protect against them. They will undertake activities to protect IT systems from security threats, including data encryption
- Investigations of the computer games industry and its impact on technological and social trends. They will design and develop a computer game to meet requirements.
POTENTIAL CAREER OPTIONS
A BTEC qualification in computing combines well with many subjects. It also goes well with subjects that contain logical, technological and creative aspects. The BTEC is a vocational qualification and the units taught cover areas applicable to a career in creative media e.g. Web Development, Graphic Design. It would also prepare candidates for a Higher Education course in a computing discipline or a degree in which computing-related skills and knowledge may be advantageous, for example Business Studies.
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“Perhaps the most important principle for the good algorithm designer is to refuse to be content.” ― Alfred V. Aho
