Education leaders have mixed opinions about a new GCSE science curriculum which has been branded "a missed opportunity".

They have warned the new style course could lead to less children going on to study sciences at A-level and degree.

The new syllabus replaces traditional factled practical study of science with more basic discussion and consideration of topical issues, including nuclear power and genetically modified crops. It started being taught to Year 10 students this term at schools in England.

James Williams, a lecturer in education at the University of Sussex said the changes were what was needed for most pupils but failed those with a deeper interest in science.

Mr Williams said: "The curriculum is now more accessible for students who, in reality, will never become scientists. Where it is now failing is in providing for those pupils who do want to go on to become scientists.

"The qualifications and curriculum authority has missed an opportunity to provide for everyone."

Prior to the changes, most pupils had studied a double GCSE in combined science.

Separate biology, chemistry and physics GCSEs are still studied at many grammar and independent schools. The new GCSE is in Scientific Literacy For The 21st Century.

The expectation is for pupils to also study an additional science GCSE with either a more factual or practical focus.

Applications to study science at the University of Sussex were up this year, despite the negative publicity caused by an attempt to close its chemistry department.

Mr Williams said there was a "worrying possibility"

children with the ability and drive to become scientists would not be identified by teachers and their skills would go unfulfilled because of the GCSE curriculum. He said the new syllabus could diminish the number of students applying to the university.

Stuart McLaughlin, headteacher of Falmer High School, Brighton, said his pupils were already responding well to the new style GCSE.

He said: "It is inevitable when a curriculum is changed you get the academics criticising it and saying it has been dumbed down."

Andrew England, spokesman for Roedean independent girl's school, Brighton, said it had opted out of the new GCSEs. Pupils will study International GCSEs (IGCSEs) instead.