Decline in IT students threatens UK success

2007 A-level results show a fall in students choosing computer science

A-level computer science student numbers declining

Dwindling numbers of A-level students taking IT-related exams may pose a serious threat to the UK’s future competitiveness, experts have warned.

Last week’s A-level results showed the number of students choosing technology subjects has fallen yet again since levels peaked in 2004.

In 2007, 5,610 pupils took A-level computing, compared with 6,233 last year.

And information and communication technology A-level numbers fell from 14,208 to 13,360.

The decline in computing A-level uptake is a concern because professional IT skills are vital to the future of the economy, said Margaret Sambell, director of strategy at sector skills body e-Skills UK.

‘Technology lies at the heart of all sectors, so a healthy pipeline of students into the industry is really important to the country’s success,’ she said.

Attracting more students to IT requires a shift in perception from schools and universities, said Philip Virgo, strategic adviser to skills group the Institute for the Management of Information Systems.

‘The IT industry is failing to provide better careers material and the material available should be taken out and pulped as the information bears no relation to the job,’ he said.

But the Department for Children, Schools and Families said the decrease in IT A-level entries is not a concern because many young people are taking alternative vocational routes.

The government is launching an ICT diploma in September 2008, and ICT functional skills will be an integral part of specialised diplomas from 2010.