E- Skills: Computing image lacks appeal among students

An expert has warned that British IT curriculums need a serious image overhaul if they are to appeal to new generations of students.

Director of strategy at e-Skills UK, Margaret Sambell, said that although the increase in A-level maths applicants is encouraging, IT is in need of an 'inspiring curriculum' which will encourage students to pursue 'technology-related degrees and careers'.

Recent figures from the employer-led organisation revealed that students assume that a career in IT will mean lack of interaction with people, low pay and uninspiring work.

Ms Sambell commented: 'A radical review of the technology curriculum is essential, bringing together the views of employers and academics to create an inspiring curriculum that is valued for progression to university and to employment.'

Meanwhile, a new IT diploma jointly devised by printer company Hewlett Packard and Thames Valley University is set to be debuted at 12 UK colleges this autumn.