Computer Science May Update
As we move fully into our exam period for this summer, please find useful updates and information here in this brief update.
Exam Dates
| Paper 1: Principles of Computer Science | 1CP2 01 | Afternoon | Monday 12th May 2025 |
| Paper 2: Application of Computational Thinking (Onscreen using an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) of choice) | 1CP2 02 | Afternoon | Tuesday 20th May |
Response to DfE's Subject Content Review
Following the Department for Education’s (DfE) review of GCSE Computer Science, we’ve carefully considered their proposed changes to subject content. We know that stability is crucial for you and your students, and at a time when so much is in the process of review in the curriculum and assessment space, we’ve decided to keep our current specification as it is.
Classroom Best Practice and Methodology Network!
This free online network is designed to support teachers delivering Pearson Edexcel GCSE Computer Science. Engage with our trainers and colleagues in an interactive session, sharing classroom experiences, effective teaching strategies, and practical tips. 💡
Participants will have the chance to:
| ✨ | Gain insights into best practices from our specialists |
| 📈 | Explore ways to maximise your classroom methodologies for greater impact |
| 📚 | Discover resources to support all learners in developing their knowledge and skills |
| 🤝 | Engage with colleagues during the event to share effective teaching practice |
| 🛠️ | Takeaway strategies and tools that can be implemented immediately |
📅 Date: 17 June 2025 🕓 Time: 16:00-17:00 BST
Training and Resources
Paper 2 Preparation Sessions
We ran two live sessions to support all our centres in the build up to the 2025 summer series for Paper 2. Here you can find the link to the recording of the 12th March 2025 session.
Computing at School Webinar
This session introduced the approach and solution to assessing our Paper 2 GCSE on screen.
Tim Brady summarised our straightforward approach and hosted a question-and-answer session.
This free online event took place on the 11 February 2025 at 16:00-17:30.
You can download and enjoy the two recent training events
New to Pearson Edexcel GCSE Computer Science
This event was live on 08 October 2024 and is a useful insight if you are considering our specification and interested in its features and the support available. This training is for teachers who are moving to Pearson Edexcel or delivering the Pearson Edexcel GCSE Computer Science specification for the first time.
and
This event was live on 01 October 2024 it focused on the performance of some of the key questions in the series and provides analysis to support centres with understanding the assessment. The session points out key statistical performance data that may help with your planning for the year ahead.
You can now access a further set of Specimen Papers - these are Set 4. These Specimen papers will remain under padlock and are a very valuable resources to be used by teachers for mocks and other in program assessments. The silver padlock means that only teachers can access these resources. Further Set 4 resources, such as exemplar training materials will be added during the next academic year.
In the meantime please utilise all Sets 1 to 4 to help prepare your students for the live assessments.
Useful background content
Paper 2 support and FAQs
We have compiled this knowledge base set of articles to help you find information relating to all aspects of our GCSE Computer Science Paper 2, if you are looking for an answer it may be here:
Please watch this short case study video
Pete Dring, Head of Computer Science at Fulford School, tells us about the school’s experience of teaching Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Computer Science.
Recording of Network event 19th March 2024 with Mission Encodeable
Recent students Harry and Anna who are currently in Year 12 studying A Level Computer Science presented their Mission Encodeable resources and answered questions about their experience of GCSE Computer Science.
If you are delivering, or are considering delivering, our 2020 Computer Science specification and have not already been contacted please complete the Intention to offer form below.
Please join the 2248 colleagues currently active in the Facebook group for this qualification. It is teachers only and provides the platform for free and open sharing of views resources and opinions.
Join us as an Examiner
Excellent opportunity to join this growing team and gain invaluable CPD.
A GCSE -Computer Science (2020 Specification) Examiner will mark candidates’ responses in accordance with the pre-defined mark scheme, whilst adhering to conditions of recognition and examination procedures. A high level of subject knowledge is necessary in order to apply the mark scheme. Each examiner will receive an agreed allocation of scripts.
Please note that if you wish to be considered you must have experience with Python Computer Language for 1CP2 02.
Responsibilities
- To mark accurately and consistently to ensure overall standards are maintained
- To submit samples to your Team Leader at designated times
- To ensure milestones for marking are adhered to
- To ensure all administration is completed as specified
Experience/qualifications needed
- You will have one academic year's worth of teaching experience: a. within the last 8 years b. within the relevant qualification and subject
- You will have a degree or equivalent
- You will be a qualified teacher
- You will have experience in Python
Free teacher access to Pearson’s online GCSE revision.
We're here to help your GCSE Computer Science students have the best chance to succeed with online revision from the exam experts.
Pearson Revise Online gives every student the same access to all their revision guides for Pearson Edexcel and AQA subjects. All in one place online, with quick quizzes and knowledge checks to help them prioritise their learning.
This year, teachers can get free access to the platform to use in front-of-class revision lessons in the run-up to mocks.
Subject advisor
Tim Brady
Computer Science and ICT Subject Advisor
