TIGA, the trade organisation that represents the UK video games industry, has responded to today’s GCSE results, welcoming the continued popularity of mathematics and the relatively stable performance of the sciences, in light of the introduction of new, more challenging exams.
Figures released this morning by the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) revealed that maths remained the most popular subject, with science moving down from third place in 2012 to fourth position this year.
As expected, there was a drop across the board in A-C results achieved for all science subjects, meaning that overall, 53.1% of science entries were awarded between an A* and a C, down from 60.7% last year. This was the biggest fall in results across all GCSE subjects.
There has also been a rise in the take-up of languages, and with regard to double award GSCEs, science has moved from second position last year to first in 2013.
Dr. Richard Wilson, CEO, TIGA, commented:
“Whilst a drop across the board for sciences and in particular a 2.4% decrease in A-C grades in physics does not sound like good news, TIGA actually supports the toughening up of science exams. In light of this we welcome these largely stable results, and call for continued emphasis on raising standards of achievement. UK businesses need high quality candidates more than they need students with high grades.
“It’s also encouraging to see maths remaining the number one subject overall, and regarding the double award GCSEs it’s good news that science has moved from second position in 2012 to first in 2013, and ICT from 8th to 5th. In addition the increased take up of languages are all positive developments. This is because the UK videogame industry is highly skilled, high tech and export focused, and will only become more so given the continued emergence of new digital markets
“Less welcome is the continued decline of students taking design and technology and ICT. As well as maths, physics and computer science, these are important subjects for careers in some of the UK’s high technology industries. Generally we’re seeing a rapidly growing appreciation for the importance of the games industry to education, as well as to the UK economy. However, it’s essential for the growth of the sector that young people learn the science and technology skills that will enable them to write code and develop the games and apps of the future.”
Jason Kingsley OBE, TIGA chairman and CEO and creative director, Rebellion, added:
“Congratulations to students, teachers and parents alike, a huge amount of hard work goes into these results, and we applaud the achievements of all concerned.
“It’s great to see maths still at the top, as well as the continued popularity of English literature. Computer games are a fascinating collision of technology, engineering and creativity, and the ability to get your ideas down on paper, and tell a story, are very much a part of that.
“We’d like to encourage students to take a look at the videogame sector, and consider the academic subjects that support a future career in it. The industry has great potential at both ends of the spectrum, from single developers creating smaller, simpler mobile puzzle games, to mega budget blockbusters with teams of hundreds creating new experiences virtually indistinguishable from movies.
“As a result, we’re also seeing the market demographic broaden out to include people of all ages and backgrounds. So whether your passion and skills are in engineering, science, mathematics or the arts, the videogames business is growing and could well have a future role for you.”
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Notes to editors:
About TIGA
TIGA is the trade association representing the video games industry. The majority of our members are either independent games developers or in-house publisher owned developers. We also have games publishers, outsourcing companies, technology businesses and universities amongst our membership. Since 2010, TIGA has won 16 business awards.
TIGA focuses on three sets of activities: political representation, profile raising and developing services that enhance the competitiveness of our members. This means that TIGA members are effectively represented in the corridors of power, their voice is heard in the media and they receive benefits that make a material difference to their businesses, including a reduction in costs and improved commercial opportunities.
For further information, please contact:
Dr Richard Wilson, TIGA CEO on: 07875 939 643, or email: richard.wilson@tiga.org
Drew Field, TIGA Communications Director on: 07720 643 344, or email: drew.field@tiga.org