New e-sports programme launched at Newcastle College

A new e-sports study programme will launch in the North East this September.

Newcastle United Foundation is teaming up with Newcastle College on a one and two-year BTEC qualification for aspiring e-sports competitors looking to level up their skills.

E-sports is any form of competition using video games.

The new course offers students the chance to represent Newcastle United Foundation in organised e-sports competitions and fixtures throughout the academic year, alongside learning about this fast-growing industry.

Jake Simpson, a professional e-sports player in the official e-Premier League, will be getting involved in the new course and offering his expertise to the next generation of competitive gamers, event managers and games business entrepreneurs.

Applications for the BTEC Level 2 and Level 3 Diplomas are now open for enrolment in September 2021 and with support from Newcastle College, Newcastle United Foundation is hosting two dedicated recruitment events this month, including an open evening on April 29 and a FIFA tournament on April 30.

Steve Beharall, head of Newcastle United Foundation, said: “We are thrilled to be extending our ongoing partnership with Newcastle College to offer young people in our region the most up-to-date and exciting opportunities to learn and work towards new and interesting careers right here in the North East.

“These new courses are truly one-of-a-kind in the region and we are excited to see what the future holds for the first cohort of students starting their journey in September.”

The course curriculum will cover all aspects of the e-sports industry, including competitive gaming, livestream event management and game business entrepreneurship.

It will help students prepare for employment in the associated industries of sport, business and leisure.

Career pathways include e-sports professional, games psychologist, live-stream event organiser, sports journalist, social media manager, games designer, production crew or even international lawyer.

Scott Bullock, principal of Newcastle College, said: “We are excited to offer this new course and hopefully help enhance the booming tech sector here in the North East.

“In 2020, Newcastle was one of only four cities to make the Smart City Index, and this innovative, creative course will help build transferable skills and multiple learning opportunities for students to take into their future academics, apprenticeships or careers prospects.”

In recent years, the e-sports industry has seen remarkable growth with tournaments hosted and live-streamed around the world, viewed by up to 30 million people online per day and broadcast across mainstream media including Sky Sports, BT Sport, BBC iPlayer and BBC Sport online.