In an article published by Times Educational Supplement (TES) on Friday, it correctly pointed out that since 2003, OCR Nationals has grown to be the fourth largest qualification in the UK. We are disappointed by the fact that TES does not appear to have spoken to centres who actually deliver the course.

OCR Nationals are all about students of all abilities undertaking independent learning in order to gain valuable qualifications for both work and further study.

In the past, we have had an unprecedented response from teachers who agree with us that Nationals have revolutionised the teaching of ICT and provide the ideal tool for giving students a stimulating and challenging learning experience.

The OCR National in ICT is a popular and rigorous qualification, which aims to engage young people in ICT - Something which the Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills (Ofsted) report recognises that more applied qualifications, such as OCR Nationals, have done. Its practical approach to learning, and its industry relevance, has been welcomed by employers.

The OCR National in ICT is not normally worth four GCSEs; the vast majority of learners take a 'First Award' which is equivalent to a single GCSE. 242,878 candidates registered for an OCR ICT National (L2 only) between 1 August 2008 - 31 July 2009 - A testimony to their huge success and the value teachers place in them.