England's examinations watchdog has issued a stark warning that standards in the new GCSE science exams have been compromised and "immediate action" is needed.
The quality of assessment for the qualification is a "serious cause for concern", Ofqual said.
In a damning report, looking at science GCSEs in 2007 and 2008, the regulator highlighted a number of issues which require "immediate action."
The report said that in many cases the exams did not challenge the brightest pupils, suggesting that they were not hard enough and it was easier than in previous years to get a top grade.
Shadow Schools Minister Nick Gibb described Ofqual's report as "a terrible indictment of the Government and the QCA at a time when scientific education has never been so economically vital".
He added: "It shows why private schools are abandoning the GCSE."
Geoff Lucas, secretary of The Headmasters and Headmistresses' Conference (HMC) which represents private school heads, said: "Anyone asking why so many independent schools are switching to the IGCSE, particularly in science, only needs to read this latest Ofqual report.
"HMC welcomes Ofqual's candour in exposing serious shortcomings with the new GCSE science exams."
Chris Keates, general secretary of the NASUWT teachers' union, said: "This confirms the NASUWT's long-held view that in a coherent, unified national qualifications system it makes no sense for critical aspects of examinations, such as their content and administration, to be hived off to a group of awarding bodies who then tout for business from schools and colleges."
Dr John Dunford, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders said he was "extremely concerned" that the reputation of GCSEs in general will be damaged.
He said: "As GCSE is taken by almost all 16-year-olds, it is imperative that it maintains public confidence. It is the task of the QCA to ensure this. Urgent action must be taken to remedy the problems in science examinations exposed by Ofqual."
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