About the programming skills requirement
For GCSE (9-1) Computer Science (J277), all students must be given the opportunity to undertake a programming task or tasks during their course of study. These tasks should allow candidates to gain practical experience of the programming skills listed within the specification. The programming task(s) must allow candidates to design, write, test and refine programs in a high-level text-based programming language(s).
Practical programming skills are assessed in Component 2, in particular Section B, of the written examination. We have provided a range of ideas for tasks on the website. However, these are not limiting. You are free to design and use your own tasks with candidates. You may also customise the tasks we provide.
Programming skills statement
For GCSE Computer Science, you must complete a practical programming statement for all examination series in which candidates are entered confirming you have met the requirements in Section 2d of the specification (Design, Write, Test, Refine).
The statement must be completed by someone who can declare that the requirements have been met. This may be your Head of Centre or Head of Department.
Statements must be submitted to us by 15 May.