Seven year-old passes IT GCSE

Last Updated: 1:41am BST25/08/2006










A seven-year-old is thought to be the youngest pupil to pass a GCSE exam this year.









Andre Buckley says he likes playing computer games
Andre Buckley, from Watford, Herts, obtained B grade in information technology after completing a course usually taken by children twice his age.

Andre studied for the GCSE with Ryde Teaching Services, an education centre in Bushey, Herts, which has a long history of helping young children pass exams early.

He said information technology was his favourite subject - "because I am good at it, I enjoy it".

"I like playing games on the internet and sending emails."



Andre's mother Gillian, 42, said he had "absolutely loved" the course.

"If I thought he was stressed out and not enjoying it, I would not have pursued it - it's not worth it," she said.

"He would look forward to going to the lessons - even the exam."

Another young pupil who passed a GCSE in ICT with Ryde today was Amar Patel, eight.

He achieved a C grade and did the course at the centre with his 12-year-old sister Alisha, who scored a B.

Amar said he wanted to be an actuary when he grew up.

WOW what a great achievement. Bless he'sso cute.

I didn't think practices like this still exist. So many people I know found that at one point in time during their education (commonly the early stages), they were more advanced in their abilities but were not encouraged to progress.

Moving at a slower pace without tapping into that potential I think isone thing that can makeyoung people lose interest in education. I see a lot of that still going on today.

Very gladto hear and see proof in this young brother that it's possible. Excellent!