BCS welcomes increase in girls studying computer science

The number of A level students opting to take computer science has increased for the sixth consecutive year – a move welcomed by Swindon-based BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT.

A level results published on Thursday (August 15) showed the number of pupils studying the subject had increased by a shade over eight percent, while the number of girls sitting the exam increased by more than a fifth.

Julia Adamson, director of Education at BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, said: “Congratulations to this year’s computer science A level students, their teachers and parents. The fact that the overall number of students opting to take A Level computer science has increased by a further 8.1 percent is positive news. And furthermore, the entries for girls have increased by 21.8 percent, which is really promising and I hope we will to see year on year growth in students and particularly girls, opting to study this important subject.

“More support is now available to computing teachers in England through the National Centre for Computing Education (NCCE). Launched last year, the NCCE is a consortium made up of STEM Learning, Raspberry Pi Foundation and BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT. It aims to increase the number of pupils in schools and colleges who study computer science at GCSE and A Level, particularly girls, and those from disadvantaged areas.”

The Secretary of State for Education, Gavin Williamson said: “Receiving your A level results is a huge day for all involved so I want to congratulate pupils, parents and teachers on all their hard work.

I’m delighted to see more pupils choosing science-related subjects. This is encouraging particularly as we look to boost science in this country and the skills we’ll need in the future. Overall the reforms we’ve put in place since 2010 and increasing rigour in our schools are giving pupils more opportunities.”

Yvonne Baker, chief executive of STEM Learning, commented: “I’m delighted that the number of students choosing to study computer science at A level is continuing to grow. High quality, knowledgeable teaching of the subject is fundamental to raising attainment and driving up participation, especially for girls. Equipping schools, colleges and teachers today ensures that England has a workforce suitably prepared for tomorrow.”