Ukie responds to National Curriculum Review

Submitted – 22nd November 2024

The decline in creative education is concerning, especially given the growth of the creative industries, which contributed £126 billion to the UK economy in 2022. Sectors like video game development have seen significant growth, yet the UK’s future success depends on equipping young people with a blend of digital and creative skills. As technology continues to transform fields such as design, animation, and video games, the demand for professionals who can combine technical proficiency with creative thinking is increasing. Without the opportunity to develop these skills in school, young people may struggle to succeed in these evolving sectors.

The introduction of a Digital Creativity GCSE would address this gap by integrating creative problem-solving with technical skill development. This qualification would reflect the growing demand for digital and creative skills across industries, offering a more inclusive pathway for students. Additionally, it would help close the gender gap in fields like video game development by fostering both creativity and digital skills in all students. Stakeholders have expressed strong support for a qualification that moves beyond theoretical exams to a more practical, hands-on curriculum, better preparing students for careers in creative industries or higher education.