About ASR Computing

Choosing to study Computing at A-level offers several compelling benefits. Firstly, computing equips you with essential skills in problem-solving, logical thinking and coding, which are highly valuable in the digitalised world. The subject not only teaches theoretical concepts, but also practical skills in Python programming, database management, as well as web app creation. Additionally, you will also enjoy opportunities over the course of 2 years in exploring various fields such as cybersecurity, data science and AI.

With technology becoming increasingly integral to all industries, having a background in computing can make you a highly competitive candidate in both higher education and the job market, giving you a versatile edge in a tech-driven future.

You are not required to take H2 Computing to pursue a Computer Science course at university. However, choosing H2 Computing as part of your subject combination is a sensible choice if you're interested to pursue this field of study. Engaging in various programs, competitions, and projects as a computing student will broaden and deepen your understanding of this dynamic field, helping you make a more informed decision about your future course of study. Additionally, these experiences, along with the projects you develop, can strengthen your portfolio for university applications, showcasing your skills and passion for the subject.

Yes definitely! While having learnt 'O' Level Computing would be of some advantage (in particular the Python programming portion), the amount of overlap between 'O' Level and 'A' Level syllabus is not great. Students who put in diligent effort and work hard to learn fundamental coding skills over the first few months would find themselves able to catch up with their peers with 'O' Level Computing background.

What's most important is whether you have the interest to learn the skills well and the dedication to work hard.

Congratulations on being a self-directed and passionate programmer! Taking H2 Computing can greatly enhance your skills by teaching you good programming practices that align with industry standards. The course is designed to be highly self-directed, making it an excellent fit for your learning style.

Additionally, H2 Computing exposes you to numerous opportunities to develop your passion for computing. You'll engage in real-world projects and activities that encourage exploration across various aspects of the field, helping you deepen your understanding and broaden your skill set.

No, for 'A'-levels, there is only H2 Computing.

Yes, there is an assessment that you would have to take if you're keen to take the subject. This is designed to assess your computational thinking skills. Importantly, no prior knowledge of any programming languages is required, so you can focus on demonstrating your problem-solving abilities and logical reasoning. Many students would find the assessment rather manageable. So if you're keen to take the subject, do ensure that you take this assessment after your matriculation to ASRJC 😀 . More information will be provided during the H2 Computing subject talk on the first day of matriculation.

Note for JC1 repeat students: To be enrolled in the subject, you must still take and clear the selection test together with the rest of the new JC1 students, regardless of whether you are changing a subject combination or retaking the subject in JC1.

H2 Computing is a highly hands-on subject, where there will be frequent coding sessions in the classroom. Windows laptop is strongly encouraged. iPads and Chromebooks cannot be used for several of classroom practical activities. In order for you to be familiar with the exam programming environment, we do strongly recommend that you have a Windows laptop for every computing lesson. There will be more information given to you in JC1 to purchase a laptop via the college if you do require one.

For the A-Level Computing examinations, you will be using the following specific software versions:

• Python 3.13.7 and JupyterLab 4.4.9
  • Flask 3.1.2
  • scikit-learn 1.7.2
• Notepad++ 7.5.4 as the text editor
• DB Browser for SQLite 3.10.1 as the database tool
• Google Chrome as the official browser

The exams will be conducted using college laptops running Windows 11 with all these programs pre-installed. Please note that internet connection will be blocked during the examination period to ensure academic integrity.

We will arrange for a selection process to determine your competency level in competitive programming skills. This assessment will likely be conducted on the day of matriculation due to the tight registration deadline for the olympiad, so you are advised to prepare well from now till the day you are posted to ASR.

A practice platform you can utilise is Codebreaker.