IT skills not taught early enough

Most schools and colleges are failing to offer students adequate information on the skills they need to pursue an IT career, trade association CompTIA has warned.

A survey conducted by CompTIA found that a lack of awareness of opportunities, and difficulties in identifying and securing the right qualifications are the two key barriers facing students interested in IT.

In addition, almost two-thirds of respondents involved in careers guidance and education for over-16s felt they had insufficient information on entry-level training requirements for the IT industry.

Matthew Poyiadgi, director of CompTIA, said: "Only a small percentage truly understand IT vocational qualifications. We extol the virtues of those that are getting it right, but they only represent about 10 per cent of the total.

"Skills need to be mapped to the needs of employers. We need to get IT education in early - it should be taught as a separate subject and kids need to understand that IT skills aren't just about being able to use a Playstation."

CompTIA, which develops its own IT certifications and qualifications alongside industry and government, also believes that students should be provided with the skills to help themselves.

"Eventually most people will be in charge of their own lifelong learning, and we want to help people arm themselves with the skills they'll need to go from project to project by keeping their skills up to date," said Poyiadgi.

"For example, students should be taught how to search and explore the web in order to find answers to their questions. As the adage goes, give someone a fish and you'll feed them for a day; teach someone to fish and you'll feed them for a lifetime."