Computing

Computer Science and Computing at Queen Ethelburga’s College

At Queen Ethelburga’s College, a top-rated independent school near York, we are committed to staying at the forefront of technological education.

Our Computing and Computer Science courses are designed to equip you with the essential digital skills for the future.

A student on a laptop in a computing theory lesson.

Study Computing as a GCSE, BTEC or A Level at Queen Ethelburga’s.
Computing Courses in Key Stages Four and Five

You can study Computer Science or Computing at GCSE, BTEC, and A Level. For those looking to explore digital creativity and gaming, we also offer related subjects such as:

Where Can Computing Take You?

Our students have gone on to study Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, IT Management for Business, Mathematics and Computer Science, Robotics, and Games Art and Design at top UK universities, including:

Which Computing Courses are Available at QE?

GCSE Computer Science

GCSE Computer Science in Yorkshire – OCR

“I chose Computer Science because I think it’s going to be really useful in the future. Programming skills are increasingly important, and I enjoy creating and testing programs that can be used in the real world.”

Year 11 Student

The GCSE Computer Science course introduces you to the principles of digital technology and computational thinking, with coding at its core. You’ll develop programming skills (Python) and explore:

  • Algorithms: understanding, creating, and interpreting
  • Binary representation, encryption, databases (with SQL)
  • Components of computing systems, logic statements, and assembly code
  • Web development using HTML and CSS
  • Computer networks and emerging computing technologies
  • Ethical, legal, and environmental impacts of computing
  • A Practical Programming Project, where you design and test original software solutions
A Level Computer Science

A Level Computer Science – OCR 

“One of the many reasons why I love and chose computer science is because of the endless possibilities of things you can create, and problems you can solve with code. I especially like the hardware and networking aspects of the course too, as they allow you to gain a deeper understanding of how the world works.”

This A Level Computer Science course builds on the GCSE qualification and focuses on real-world applications. It’s a practical, academic and creative subject where you'll learn:

  • Computational thinking and algorithms
  • Software development and programming structures
  • Modern hardware, storage, and input/output devices
  • Data types and structures
  • Legal, moral, and ethical computing issues
  • Problem-solving with standard and advanced algorithms
BTEC Level 3 National in Computing

BTEC Level 3 National in Computing (Extended Certificate)

“BTEC Computing is an excellent course, I especially like the unit on cyber security and encryption.”

This Level 3 BTEC in Computing is ideal for students interested in practical applications of computing in business, IT, or game development. We also recommend pairing it with our BTEC in Esports.

Key topics include:

  • Programming fundamentals
  • Network security and encryption
  • Human-computer interaction
  • Practical coding and project work

Student in a Computing lesson.


Why Study Computing at Queen Ethelburga’s College?

  • Access to state-of-the-art computing suites and a brand-new Esports Room
  • Study options across GCSE, A Level, and BTEC
  • Opportunities to enter prestigious competitions like the Oxford University Computing Challenge
  • A digital-first learning environment with laptops and AI-enhanced tools integrated into the curriculum
  • Supportive staff and bespoke academic guidance

Visit Queen Ethelburga’s – Computing Courses Near York

Ready to explore your future in tech? Speak with our Admissions Team to find the best course for your interests and career goals. Join us for an Open Day or book a private tour to see our world-class facilities in action.