IT IS APPY days for students at Cirencester College after a local iPhone games firm created a new course in how to build an iPhone game.

Oli Christie, chief executive officer of mobile applications studio Neon Play, on Castle Street, said he was so frustrated with the lack of iPhone programmers on the job market that he decided to develop a course at the college to teach potential candidates.

The aim is to increase iPhone programming knowledge so that more developers are able to design and build games and 'apps' for the iPhone, one of the few growth industries in the country.

"The lack of iPhone programming skills is shocking," said Mr Christie.

"The app economy is one of the fastest growing in the world and yet we are falling behind in this country due to a lack of programming skills."

Mr Christie approached the college and was given approval to develop a vocational module to help teach students on its BTEC, IT and A Level computing courses how to build iPhone apps and games.

"We have been working together to set a brief to over 50 students to create an iPhone game," he added.

"We will offer feedback on ideas as well as provide ongoing support. It is a necessary step.

"If the UK is to compete in these new economies we have to start tailoring course to equip students with the necessary skills."

Neon Play will also look to offer the best students - who are proactive, keen and talented - work experience, placements and internships.

It is part of a longer term plan to introduce a national Neon Play Award for the best student iPhone game each year.

Will Parker, from the Department of ICT at the college said the involvement of Neon Play was great news.

"We want to work more closely with local businesses on developing courses that help our students meet the demands of the modern world head-on," he said.

"Neon Play’s help with iPhone app programming is a huge boost for the students and we hope it is the start of a long term relationship."