Computer science and development may soon be brought into schools for younger years.
A reform has been called for in schools, by creative industries minister Ed Vaizey, to bring younger children up to date with technology preparing them for the creative industries when they start their careers.

The reform could see IT and computer science lessons becoming more varied, covering a wider range of technologies – including social media and video gaming.

The report conducted earlier this year brought to light the need for younger children to develop technology skills from a young age.

The minister has said that changing the curriculum could help Britain stay ‘at the forefront’ of that business sector.

The ‘Next Gen’ report (an independent study commissioned by the Department for Culture – Media and Sports in July 2010) published this year outlined twenty in-depth recommendations for the government, industry and schools to reflect over.

Vaizey said: “The economic and cultural value of the UK’s video games and VFX sectors is clear and the long-term potential of their global markets present a great opportunity for UK-based businesses.

The creative industries have the capability to generate high quality jobs for the next generation, and will be important in recovering from the economic slump.

Investment is needed in schools now to allow the next generation of employees to keep the UK at the front of technology and games creativity.

Young people increasingly prefer to take entrepreneurial career paths in ecommerce, rather than more traditional roles. The reforms will give more young people the chance to increase their skills before joining the working world.

The report focused on a number of sectors including biz software, telecoms, engineering, design and social media sectors, with extra consideration paid to video games and visual effects talent.