What is GCSE Computer Science?

GCSE Computer Science is a two-year qualification, usually taken in Years 10–11, designed to help students understand how computers and software work and to develop core computational thinking and practical programming skills.

This course goes beyond simply using technology — it teaches students how to create technology, solve problems, and build real solutions using code and systems thinking.

Students explore how computers process information, how software is developed, how to design algorithms, and how to program solutions to real-world problems. They also examine the ethical, social, and legal impact of technology on individuals and society.

Why this course matters

• Develops practical digital skills — students learn how to build and program technology.

• Encourages problem-solving, logical thinking, and creativity — skills valuable in many careers.

• Supports future pathways such as software development, data science, cybersecurity, game design, engineering, and more.

• Provides hands-on opportunities to create real programs and solve authentic problems with technology.

What students will do

• Learn how computers work internally, including processors, memory, and storage.

• Develop and test algorithms to break large problems into manageable parts.

• Write, debug, and refine Python programs that could, for example:

  • Calculate student results and generate reports.

  • Create a simple game with graphical user input.

  • Build a text-based data entry system for storing school records.

• Consider ethical and legal issues such as privacy, security, and the impacts of artificial intelligence.

 

Qualification Structure (Units and Weightings)

GCSE Computer Science (Wales) is assessed through two compulsory units:

Unit Title	Type of Assessment	Weighting
Unit 1 — Understanding Computer Science	Digital written examination	50%
Unit 2 — Computer Programming	On-screen examination (based on pre-released brief)	50%

Note: There is no coursework unit; practical programming skills are assessed through the Unit 2 on-screen exam based on a real scenario.

 

Unit 1: Understanding Computer Science (50%)

Assessment: Digital written exam (1 hour 30 minutes) including short answer, structured questions, and extended explanations.

This unit covers the theory and systems knowledge that underpins all computer science work.

Core Concepts

• Computer Architecture

  • Components of a computer (CPU, memory, input/output)

  • How CPUs execute instructions

  • Differences in performance based on hardware choices

• Systems and Function

  • How different parts of a system work together

  • Characteristics and trade-offs of storage types (e.g., SSD vs HDD)

• Networks and Communication

  • Basics of networking, LAN/WAN structures

  • How data travels across networks securely

  • Cybersecurity principles and threats

• Data Representation

  • Binary and hexadecimal systems

  • How text, images, and sound are stored digitally (e.g., ASCII/Unicode)

• Operating Systems and Software

  • Role of operating systems in managing hardware and software

  • Utility software (e.g., antivirus, compression tools)

• Algorithms and Logical Thinking

  • Standard algorithms (e.g., searching, sorting)

  • Boolean logic (AND, OR, NOT) to build and simplify logic

• Ethical, Legal and Social Issues

  • Data protection, intellectual property, accessibility

  • Environmental impact of technology (energy use, e-waste)

Skills Developed

• Read and interpret scenario descriptions to apply theory

• Use computational vocabulary accurately

• Analyse trade-offs between different system designs

Unit 2: Computer Programming (50%)

Assessment: On-screen exam based on a pre-released task brief issued before the exam. Students build and refine a solution under timed conditions.

This hands-on unit focuses on programming skills and iterative problem solving.

Key Skills and Topics

• Problem Decomposition and Abstraction

  • Break larger problems into sub-problems

  • Identify the core functionality needed

• Algorithm Design

  • Plan solutions using pseudocode or flowcharts

  • Design efficient structures before coding

• Python Programming

  • Write Python programs using variables, loops, conditionals

  • Use functions and modular design for reusable code

• Data Handling

  • Work with lists, dictionaries, and files

  • Validate input and manage errors securely

• Testing and Refinement

  • Test code with sample inputs

  • Debug and improve solutions for reliability

 

Skills Across Both Units

• Computational Thinking: Break problems down, identify patterns, and automate solutions

• Critical Thinking and Analysis: Evaluate design choices and interpret results

• Creativity and Innovation: Produce original software that works effectively

• Communication: Explain technical ideas clearly to others

 

 

How This Course Helps Students

This course prepares students for:

• Further study in computing (e.g., A-level Computer Science)

• Careers in software development, data science, cybersecurity

• Understanding digital systems and the impact of technology in daily life

• Developing skills that support mathematics, science, and logic-based subjects