Computing surges in popularity at GCSE and A Level

Computing courses at GCSE and A Level have continued to soar in popularity with students, according to provisional statistics released by Ofqual this week. 

The statistics cover entries for GCSE, AS and A Level over the current 2024 summer series of exams. Computing is amongst the courses with the biggest increases, along with subjects like further mathematics, engineering, and statistics.

OCR is the market leader in GCSE Computer Science, and was the first awarding body to deliver a modern computer science GCSE after the subject was reintroduced to the National Curriculum in 2012.

Entries to computing subjects at A Level increased by 11.8 per cent in 2024 compared to the previous year, with a 6.2% per cent increase in GCSE entries. This continues an ongoing upward trend, with GCSE entries rising from 76,180 in 2020 to 93,985 in 2024 – an increase of over 23 per cent.

“Reflect students’ changing needs”

Jill Duffy, Chief Executive of OCR, said: "Computing is surging in popularity. Students are demanding qualifications that are relevant to their lives now and for their future employment.”

"We need to reflect students' changing needs, not only in subject options and content, but in how qualifications are delivered and assessed. That's why OCR is preparing to offer the first fully digitally assessed GCSE in Computer Science.”

OCR is part of Cambridge University Press & Assessment and has been working with the wider organisation to introduce and trial digital assessments for GCSE Computer Science. This has involved extensive consultation of students and real-world trials using mock exams. These trials are analysed for differences in performance with traditional assessment, and ensure on-screen exams can be delivered without affecting results.

Climate review needed

Jill Duffy added: "When we consult students, we see a clear demand for more relevant content, such as on climate change, to be reflected in multiple subjects." 

Cambridge University Press & Assessment recently called for a review of the curriculum to ensure climate education is included across subjects and age groups. It follows consultation with young people that found a demand for more extensive and effective climate education. OCR has spearheaded the campaign for the introduction of a new GCSE in Natural History.