The intent of the Computer Science Department is to introduce and enthuse students about what, for many, is a totally new subject. As a department, we are aware that whilst schools like Beaconsfield High have enabled its students to achieve remarkable results across a huge variety of disciplines, the perception of women in technology and the opportunities for our students in computer science and related fields, still suffers. 

We aim to demonstrate how students can thrive and excel in technical industries as well as emphasising the social, economic and cultural shifts that are underpinning the industries' burgeoning demand for highly technical, highly capable females. 

Co-Curricular Enrichment 

• Annual trip to Disneyland Paris for Computing Live!
• Student organised Year 12 Trip 

KS3 (Years 7 - 9)

Pre-GCSE we aim to give the students a solid foundation in the principles of computer science, by building on prior knowledge and introducing them to new concepts in innovative, practical and challenging activities. 

We continue to encourage students who have demonstrated an aptitude for computer science in the lower years to take the subject at GCSE and beyond.   

GCSE (Years 10 – 11) 

The GCSE course comprises of three components: 

1. Computer Systems: Builds on learning from Year 9 relating to the functions of and relationships between physical components of computers and networks. Students will become familiar with the impact of Computer Science in a global context through the study of the ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns associated with Computer Science. 
2. Computational thinking, algorithms and programming. 
3. A programming project: Students will undertake a programming task which allows them to develop their skills to design, write, test and refine programs using Python.

For more information on the GCSE course, download our GCSE Options Guide below. 

A-Level (Years 12 – 13) 

The A-Level course will extend student knowledge and understanding of programming in Python, taking a deeper dive into how computers work and further develop an understanding of the impact computing has had and will have in the future, and how this influences societies and individuals. 

A Level Computer Science suits students who are: 

• Considering reading Computer Science, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence or some other course where a foundation in coding and how computers work will support their application 
• Considering reading engineering, sciences, medicine or any other course that is using computers and technology in a transformational way. 

For more information on the A-Level Computer Science course grade requirements, download a copy of the Sixth Form Prospectus below.  For more information on the course content, download a copy of the A-Level Options Guide below.