GCSE Computer Science
Almost every aspect of our lives is affected by computers, from how we travel to school and manage our social lives to vast networks that control global communication, trade, finance and transportation. In fact, using computers has become so integral to our daily lives it would be difficult to imagine life without them.
Understanding how computing shapes our world and learning the skills necessary to be a part of this digital revolution is vital for everyone. Studying GCSE Computer Science is a key pathway for young people to secure their role in a rapidly evolving job market that already demands high levels of computing skill and literacy.
GCSE Computer Science is an exciting and creative subject at Ashbourne. You will receive expert tuition and guidance on developing the technical understanding, skills and language to create computer-based solutions and programs with practical, real-world applications.
You will use the latest iMacs and become familiar with the industry-standard programming languages including Python, Javascript, HTML and CSS.
Which syllabus do we follow?
Ashbourne follows the OCR specification for GCSE Computer Science.
Who teaches this course?
Irwin Chin
BEng Electrical Engineering (Imperial College, London); QTC in ICT (Hertfordshire University)
Irwin has been teaching Mathematics and Computer Science for more than 30 years, as well as lecturing in Electrical Engineering. Along with this extensive experience he brings a wealth of expertise in programming robotics and applying high-level programming languages. In his spare time, Irwin loves playing the piano, singing and writing children’s books. He is also a football coach and ref.
Anastasia Eleftheriou
PhD Complex Systems Simulation (University of Southampton); BEng (Hons) Computing (Imperial College London)
Anastasia has experience teaching up to degree level and brings plenty of practical knowledge to the classroom. She is a researcher, academic and entrepreneur in computer science, new tech and its application. She is director and co-founder of a tech research and innovation organisation in education, she has published on a range of topics and serves on the scientific committee of the Educational and Development Conference. She is also a member of the European Female Founders Forum, chaired by the European Commissioner Mariya Gabriel.
This course covers the computer systems, computational thinking, algorithms and programming and practical programming.
You will examine how computer systems are composed, function, what they can achieve, and the data types required to accomplish tasks. You will also learn different techniques to approach computer-based problem solving using high-level programming language like Python.
You will also examine the pressing issues of cyber security and ethics.
