less people doing computing is a good thing

I think I know where you are going with this.

I don't know if it's the same now-a-days but I had the option of doing IT/Computing for both GCSE and A-Levels. I made the concious choice not to do such a course as 'core' subjects such as English, Maths and Physics were viewed far more favourably by universities offering computer related degrees (Computer Science etc).

Plus there's the added benefit that with an A Level in Maths/Physics you open the door to more opportunities as these subjects complement most jobs very well.

My two pennies. Any thoughts?

Qs

Have you seen the A-level ICT spec? I had a look at OCRs offering and I wasn't much impressed. The focus on theory is probably what puts a lot of people off, you spend your first unit digging through 'what is data' etc. And there does seem to be a lot in there about business proccesses etc. This is whats turning students off.

If I was writing a spec for an ICT A-level I'd focus on practical application, get them building software to a defined spec, building and upgrading PCs etc. The business process stuff they can learn later, give them a grounding in the ins and outs of actual computing and you'll see an increase in uptake.