Ukie’s creative computing initiative, Digital Schoolhouse, powered by PlayStation, has been running the UK’s first inter-schools esports tournament, with over 400 pupils from Digital Schoolhouses across the country competing in a Rocket League competition.
The tournament has been designed to inspire students outside of the classroom by exposing them to careers within the games, esports and creative industries.
As Shahneila Saeed, programme director for Digital Schoolhouse, explains: “The esports tournament will expose students to the increasing breadth of new careers available within the video games industry by immersing them in the exciting world of esports. It is a careers event with a difference! By raising awareness of these sectors and their associated careers, we hope to inspire the next generation to consider creative digital and STEAM careers and to help them develop their digital literacy.”
The tournament is now reaching its climax, with the Grand Final taking place on Tuesday 4 April at the Gfinity London Arena as part of the fringe of the London Games Festival. The top 12 of the original 400 pupils will be battling it out in the studio in front of a live audience, with a professional caster to make the students feel like this is the real deal.
An audience of esports professionals, media, the games and education sectors, as well as supporting pupils from the final four schools will gather to see the final games and the presentation of the trophy by a special VIP guest.
The final few tickets are available for the event. If you'd like to come along and support the pupils and network with the esports industry, email Shahneila@ukie.org.uk.