The Computing Department offers Computer Science at Higher Level.

Computing links with Mathematics, Science, Economics, and Design and Technology, providing insights into both natural and artificial systems. The founders of top companies are often former students of Computer Science, which has allowed them to acquire technical skills and more. Research has shown that Computer Science offers a wide range of career prospects, with numerous opportunities across various industries. 

“Computer Science questions teach you to ask — How do you accomplish a task? Can you find a pattern? What data do you need? — are useful no matter where you go in life.” – Bill Gates (Microsoft co-founder)

In the Sixth Form at BGS, we offer Computer Science at IB Higher level only. This allows us to deliver an extremely ambitious curriculum in which students transition to a new coding programming paradigm. As part of this, students develop an effective application written in Python for a real client. We aim for all software development work to be completed by the end of Year 12, focusing primarily on developing a deep and proficient understanding of Python programming. In Year 13, the curriculum broadens to consider the theoretical aspects of Object-Oriented Programming, the software development lifecycle, and computer hardware. Every year, higher examination involves a case study that has previously included topics like cryptocurrency, genetic algorithms, and machine learning, meaning the curriculum is revised yearly to include this information.

International Baccalaureate - Computer Science

IB Assessment Summary (first assessment 2027)

At KS5 IB Computer Science, homework is assessed weekly, and there are mock examinations twice a year.

A weekly after-school code clinic allows students to receive one-on-one feedback and guidance. Apart from regular homework and coding projects, formal mock exams are held biannually.