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Computing Science

New National Qualifications

Compact disc with 1 and 0s Computing Science sits within the technologies curriculum area.

Finalised documents have now been published for all the new Curriculum for Excellence Advanced Highers. This means that, along with the documents that were published last April, finalised Course and Unit documents are now available for all the new qualifications, from National 2 to Advanced Higher. These documents contain both mandatory information (in the Specifications) and advice and guidance (in the Support Notes). You can download all of these documents for this subject from our download page, using the button below, or use our check-box facility to download a selection of documents.

Assessment support materials are also now available for all the new National 2, National 3, National 4 and National 5 qualifications. Information on Course assessment support material (such as Specimen Question Papers and coursework information) is available on the National 5 subject page and, for all National 2 to National 5 qualifications, information on how to access Unit assessment support materials can be found on each subject page.

Following the development of these support materials, some documents with mandatory information (in particular the Course Assessment Specifications) will be updated with further information and clarifications by mid-June. In line with our standard practice, these documents will contain version information and a note of changes, if necessary. This will ensure that you can recognise the most up-to-date documents.

Development process

The final documents have been published following a lengthy engagement process. Find out how we got here. Considerable work has been carried out by the Curriculum Area Review Groups (CARGs), the Qualifications Design Teams (QDTs) and Subject Working Groups (SWGs) to develop the final documents.

At each stage of the qualification development process, we publish draft documents outlining our proposals and plans.

Visit our timeline to find out when the next documents for each qualification will be published.

Key points

develops a range of computing and computational thinking skills, including skills in analysis and problem-solving, design and modelling, developing, implementing and testing digital solutions, across a range of contemporary contexts
is a new Course that combines the best aspects of the current Computing and Information Systems Courses
provides opportunities to build challenging, coherent and enjoyable learner journeys through all levels
takes account of modern technologies and development methodologies related to software development and information systems
has a hierarchical Unit structure that provides progression from National 3 to Higher
has added value assessments that provide personalisation and choice in assignments at National 4, National 5 and Higher with question papers also providing added value at National 5 and Higher
complements other SQA provision (National Progression Awards in Digital Media Production, Computer Games Development and PC passport at SCQF 6)

The Computing Science progression framework (194 KB) provides advice and guidance on how experiences and outcomes at third and fourth curriculum levels relate to the Outcomes and Assessment Standards of National 4 and National 5 qualifications.