We talk a lot about the transferrable skills developed through esports, and now, students will be able to gain a qualification that recognises these key skills for employment.
We are truly delighted to announce a new programme partnership between the British Esports Federation and the Leadership Skills Foundation. Today marks the culmination of over 12-months of collaborative work between the two organisations to develop the Esports Leadership Programme for 11–19-year-olds.
From this week, 12 Trailblazer centres, ranging from schools to football clubs, will start delivery of the programme. Their learners and tutors will work with us to develop the qualifications even further in time for a roll-out to additional centres in September 2024 (note your interest here if you want to be the first to hear of when we open the doors for further enrolment!)
For students whose passions go beyond the traditional curriculum subjects, the Esports Leadership Programme offers a way to develop essential leadership skills in a subject they are really excited about. The qualifications will offer them the opportunity to develop skills that are in high demand from employers, enhance their learning and support future aspirations. The programme integrates with a suite of BTEC Esports courses and aims to assist schools and colleges in implementing dedicated esports learning pathways for their students.
Lucy Supperstone, Director of Innovation and Standards at the Leadership Skills Foundation said:
“Many young people are engaged in the world of esports and the vast number of employment opportunities connected to this subject are ever growing. This relatively new subject has highlighted the transferability of leadership skills and the ability of our programmes to support learners to develop these skills in new and exciting areas.
Working with the British Esports Federation, our aim is to support young people to be able to lead esports activities that engage their local communities and promote the opportunities that esports offer in terms of skill development. Just like our traditional sports leadership programmes, the community-building and camaraderie found in esports is a great bedrock on which to build essential leadership skills.
Ultimately, we hope that the Esports Leadership Programme will be the foundation for many young people to develop the skills that will be so vital for their future.”
Chester King, British Esports President and chair of the Global Esports Federation’s Education, Culture and Wellness Commission, said: “I’d like to say a huge congratulations to all of our Trailblazer centres and their students on taking their first steps into esports leadership. We hope this will be the start of an exciting journey for students, exposing them to a range of future career opportunities in an industry they are incredibly passionate about.
We talk a lot about the transferrable skills developed through esports, and now, students will be able to gain a qualification that recognises these key skills for employment. It will be an exciting challenge, and an amazing opportunity for students to grow, reflect, learn and develop, and for some, the start of their journey to becoming tomorrow’s esports industry ambassadors, entrepreneurs and leaders.”
The Esports Leadership Programme will be underpinned by two qualifications, levels 1 and 2, with deliverers being able to select the appropriate level for the learner. As with all our leadership programmes, centres will be supported by teaching resources, evidence records and professional learning opportunities.
The Trailblazer element is a truly exciting phase, with over 250 11–19-year-olds being given the opportunity to achieve a Level 1 or 2 Qualification in Leadership Skills.
Lucy Supperstone added: “It has been great to work with the British Esports Federation to develop these flagship leadership skill qualifications. The partnership is another fantastic opportunity to support us in evolving our offer, ensuring that we engage young people through subjects that they are passionate about, whilst maintaining the development of leadership skills at the heart of all our programmes.”
To note your interest in delivering the Esports Leadership Programme from September 2024, simply complete this short form and we will be in touch shortly.
Please welcome our Trailblazer Centres for the Esports Leadership Programme!
