The IT industry's skills council e-skills has called for a
"radical review" of the IT curriculum, after numbers taking
computing subjects at
A-level and
GCSE this year fell again.
E-skills blames an uninspiring curriculum for putting young
people off the subject early on. The organisation also says
"misperceptions" contribute to a lack of interest, with students
"assuming that IT is concerned with computers not people, is dull
and repetitive, and is not well paid".
Margaret Sambell, director of strategy at e-skills, said, "We
believe that a radical review of the technology curriculum in
schools is essential.
"In order to compete in the technology intensive globalised
economy, we need an inspiring curriculum in schools that attracts
increasing numbers of talented students into technology-related
degrees and careers."
She added that the curriculum needs to be rebuilt with input
from employers and universities. It is hoped the new
IT diploma, developed in conjuction with employers, will
encourage more students to take IT.
The number of students taking computing A-level has plummeted
50% in the last five years and just 5,068 pupils took the course
this year, which was 10% less than in 2007.
GCSE IT suffered a 14% decline compared to 2007 with 85,599
students sitting the exam.
Universities have experienced similar problems, with 50% fewer
students taking IT related degrees than in 2003.