Rebooting computer science: the new GCSE explained
Nathan Evans, Qualifications Manager, talks through the new GCSE in computer science and what it means for teachers and learners.
Computer science is the foundation of our digital world, shaping how we live, work, and solve problems. Beyond technical skills, it fosters creativity, critical thinking, and resilience – equipping learners to navigate an evolving technological landscape. Understanding computation can empower learners to innovate, evaluate digital systems, and make informed, ethical decisions.
The introduction of the new GCSE Computer Science marks a key step in preparing learners for the digital future, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
How is GCSE Computer Science changing?
The new GCSE Computer Science qualification will be introduced in September 2025. Building on the foundations laid by the existing qualification, the new GCSE has been designed to support learners to develop the skills they need in the digital space.
Balancing learning and assessment
Key changes have been made to improve assessment accessibility and learner engagement. The Unit 2 on-screen coding assessment makes use of pre-release briefs, giving learners a year to explore relevant coding challenges before undertaking an assessment. This approach reduces the burden of the current programming assessment while supporting opportunities for collaborative learning, problem-solving, and skill development in the classroom, mirroring how coding is done in industry. Learners can work together in the classroom, use online resources, and engage with teachers to refine their programming skills using those briefs prior to undertaking a controlled assessment.
To further support manageability, the qualification is now unitised. Learners can take the Unit 1 assessment, which focusses on theoretical knowledge and understanding, in Year 10, before applying their coding skills in the programming assessment at the end of Year 11. This structure reduces overall assessment load and gives learners more opportunities to develop their knowledge and skills.
On-screen assessment
As digital assessment becomes more commonplace in qualifications and in schools, there is a clear logic and rationale for computer science to be wholly assessed digitally. Both assessments will be on-screen, ensuring learners engage with content in an environment that reflects real-world software development and computing practices, something that stakeholders strongly supported.
Updated content
The qualification content has been refreshed to reflect the latest developments in the subject area, ensuring learners engage with relevant and meaningful topics. It provides opportunities to explore computing in real-world contexts, including emerging technologies like AI, allowing learners to develop the skills needed for an evolving digital landscape. To support this, Python (which is one of the programming languages in the current specification) has been chosen as the prescribed programming language by WJEC. This will support learners to build a strong foundation in core programming principles using an industry standard medium.
Supporting centres through change
Colleagues at Qualifications Wales are continuing to work closely with WJEC and Welsh Government to support the successful introduction and implementation of digital assessments.
WJEC has already started publishing bilingual digital resources for computer science, and face-to-face ‘preparing to teach’ events are ongoing throughout the spring term.
We will continue to keep you updated on any developments in this space via our modernising assessment page.