School students will learn the words of the vocalist and television host, Charlotte Church as part of their GCSE English syllabus.

The manner in which the singer, who rose to fame as a kid, talks will be studied by learners in the subject usually linked more with Shakespeare and Jane Austen.

From September, GCSE scholars will also be observing the words of Gavin and Stacey star, Ruth Jones and BBC newsreader, Huw Edwards for their English education.

The contemporary language verbal element of the examination is being launched by Welsh examining board, OCR Cymru.

But the move to commence television celebs into GCSE exams was criticised as "dumbing down" by education activists.

Nick Seaton, Chairman of the Campaign for Real Education, said that he does not believe that a lot of parents would consider Charlotte Church as a fine example for younger generation.

He said, "All these insertions into the curriculum distract from the primary purpose of teaching youngsters a good education".

Marie Clair, Plain English Campaign Spokeswoman, said that the attention on famous personalities is injuring pupils' odds of employment.

She said that TV and film appear to be substituting their tutors. It is always disturbing when educators have to re-discover methods to make younger people study fundamental skills.