What are students studying in Computer Science this year?
In Year 10 students start their GCSE course. The course offered at Newstead Wood is the AQA GCSE in Computer Science, specification 8525.
In Year 10, we aim to finish all programming topics in Paper 1 and two theory topics from Paper 2. Students use the high-level programming language, Python.
In Year 11 students continue with their GCSE course, and we aim to finish the curriculum by March.
What are the major assessments this year?
Students are assessed on each topic building to a major assessment at the end of the academic year, which is based on past GCSE exam questions. At the end of Year 11 students will sit the external assessment.
The Year 11 formal external assessment structure is:
Paper 1 Written exam
Subject coverage:
- Fundamentals of algorithms
- Programming
➢ Written exam set in practically based scenarios: 2 hours
➢ 90 marks
➢ 50% of GCSE
Paper 2 Written exam
Subject coverage:
- Fundamentals of data representation
- Computer systems
- Fundamentals of computer networks
- Cyber security
- Relational databases and structured query language (SQL)
- Ethical, legal and environmental impacts of digital technology on wider society, including issues of privacy
➢ Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
➢ 90 marks
➢ 50% of GCSE
What will the current performance grade be based on?
The current performance grades are based on all the work completed in the year by students, including classwork and homework as well as the end of topic assessments.
What should my daughter do if she feels she is struggling in the subject?
If your daughter feels she is struggling in the subject, the first step is to speak directly with her subject teacher. It’s helpful if she can pinpoint the specific topics or skills she finds challenging, as this allows us to provide more focused and effective support. We’re here to help and can offer a range of strategies, from targeted revision resources to extra guidance in or outside of lessons.
How can I support my daughter?
One of the most effective ways to support your daughter is by regularly talking to her about what she’s learning and how she feels she’s progressing. Showing an interest in her subject can really boost her confidence. You can also make learning more relatable by discussing how you use IT in everyday life—whether through smartphones, online services, or technology at work—which helps reinforce the relevance of what she’s studying in class.
Additionally, encourage her to complete all set work on time and set aside regular, focused time for practising coding, as consistent practice is key to building confidence and fluency in Computer Science.
What kind of independent work should my daughter be completing?
Students receive regular independent homework, which is assigned and submitted via Microsoft Teams. Additionally, your daughter can use the software and programming languages taught in class, such as Python, to create her own projects.
She should also stay informed about the latest developments in IT by subscribing to the MIT newsletter and BBC technology news.
Who can I contact for further advice and information?
Please feel free to contact the Head of Computer Science, Mrs Mehta, via email at jmehta@newsteadwood.co.uk with as much detailed information as possible.