Sunderland College lecturer nominated by students for BAFTA mentor award

A North East lecturer has been nominated for the 2021 BAFTA Young Games Designer Mentor Award by the students he has inspired.

Sunderland College’s Chris Jeffrey is up for the prestigious award, which is presented to educators whose passion and dedication has motivated learners through games development and design.

As well as bringing games design to life in the classroom, Chris has also encouraged and supported his students to showcase their talent and creativity at the BAFTA Young Game Designers competition.

Under Chris’ guidance, students have won the Game Making Award – Adam Pace for platform game ‘Wip’ in 2019 – while also being named finalists in 2016, 2018 and 2019.

Reacting to the news of his nomination, Chris said: “As soon as I heard about my nomination, I was smiling from ear to ear and absolutely over the moon. To be appreciated by my students in this way is such an honour.

“I always strive to lead by example, paving the way for students to have the best possible start to their careers by drawing on my passion for games development and own experiences as an indie developer.

“Preparing students for the industry is extremely important to me, as is helping them find and hone their specialisms.

“The games industry is highly competitive and all I want is the best for every student I teach.

“Winning this award would be the ultimate recognition of both my endeavours as an indie game developer and as a lecturer.”

Jane Reed, faculty director for Digital, Creative and Access at Education Partnership North East, added: “This is amazing news. Chris not only provides excellent support and guidance to the students; his interaction has a really positive impact upon our young people at the college.

“Chris shares his wealth of expertise with such passion and enthusiasm and is truly inspirational. He an outstanding role model for anyone wanting to pursue a career in the games industry.”

Sunderland College, alongside Hartlepool Sixth Form, is one of only 13 colleges to deliver Next Gen Skills Academy qualifications which brings together education and industry in a unique way.