Schools to offer 'videogame GCSE'

The government has announced it plans to offer a new qualification that will enable school pupils to learn the history of videogames.

As part of the new media course, 14 year-old students will learn the 'historical development of computer games' as part of the Diploma which can be learnt at either GCSE or A-Level standard.

The qualification will be part of a new range of Diplomas, which pupils will be able to study instead of more traditional subjects such as History.

The new range of Diplomas, which will also cover IT, construction, engineering, media and health and social care, will be rolled out from next year.

Schools secretary Ed Balls said: "I want to see the brightest and the best taking diplomas which will give them more choice and allow them to get the careers they really want.

"I'm confident that when people study the draft content now available, they will see how far we've come in developing a credible alternative for all young people.”