Students Prefer GCSE Computing Rather Than PE

More students are choosing to study computing at the GCSE level than PE for the first time since the technology-based subject was introduced.

 

There were 81,120 entries for computing across all UK candidates, compared with 79,924 for PE, to the latest figures from the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ).

 

The number of students choosing to study PE has been falling since 2016. In 2014, 112,971 pupils decided to pursue it at GCSE, rising to a high of 125,120 two years later but falling after that.

 

In contrast, computing’s popularity had soared from just 16,773 entries in 2014 when the course was first made available.

 

The trend is driven by a growing awareness of the importance of digital skills in the modern world and the increasing presence of technology in all aspects of life.

 

Computing is now seen as an essential skill for many jobs, and GCSE students recognise that it is a subject that can lead to exciting and well-paid careers.

 

The JCQ figures also showed that girls are closing the gender gap in computing, with 40,059 entries from female candidates this year compared to 37,588 in 2016.

 

This is still some way behind boys’ entries, which stood at 77,532 this year, but the gap is narrowing.

 

The trend toward studying computing over PE is driven by a growing awareness of the importance of digital skills in the modern world and the increasing presence of technology in all aspects of life.

 

Computing is now seen as an essential skill for many jobs, and GCSE students recognise that it is a subject that can lead to exciting and well-paid careers.

 

The JCQ figures also showed that girls are closing the gender gap in computing, with 40,059 entries from female candidates this year compared to 37,588 in 2016.

 

This is still some way behind boys’ entries, which stood at 77,532 this year, but the gap is narrowing.

In addition to traditional academic subjects, more and more students are recognising the value of studying computing.

 

The subject can lead to a wide range of exciting and well-paid careers and is essential for many jobs in the modern world.

 

With girls closing the gender gap in computing, it is clear that this subject is open to everyone with the ability and interest to succeed.

 

What do you think about this trend? Is it good or bad for students? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

 

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