The Guardian reports that there will be a new subject available at UK schools, starting in September: podcasting.

Students will be able to get a vocational qualification in internet broadcasting with the launch of an NCFE Level 1 (GCSE grades D-G) award in podcasting:

The new qualification from the NCFE (formerly the Northern Council for Further Education) will allow learners to investigate the process of planning, preparing and producing a podcast.

It aims to help students understand the concepts of podcasting and to develop creative, information technology and communication skills. It will be available in centres across the UK from September 2008. 

“Podcasting is fast becoming a part of everyday life – vicars are delivering sermons via podcasts, police departments are launching ‘crimewatch’ video podcasts and schools and colleges are recording lessons via podcasts. It’s therefore vital that we offer people both an understanding and the skills to utilise this technology,” said David Grailey, the NCFE’s chief executive.

“The qualification has also allowed us, as an organisation, to look at the benefits of podcasts within the education market and consider future plans to deliver our qualifications and syllabus through different mediums – including podcasts.”