The College Merthyr Tydfil has, today, officially launched its brand new esports gaming suite.
The new dedicated facility, which will support the delivery of the college’s esports BTEC qualification alongside acting as a gaming and competition venue for the college’s British Esports Team, comes complete with 25 brand new gaming stations and performance monitors, Nitro Concepts gaming chairs, a live streaming kit and a large touch screen TV.
Through studying on the Pearson BTEC esports, learners will have an opportunity to develop a range of transferable skills in coaching and events, business, finance, leadership, teamwork, social and communication skills, cyber, digital and more, ensuring that they are well equipped to progress into the many career opportunities within this growing industry.
The facility will also provide opportunities to support grassroots esports in the wider community, offering outreach and taster sessions and programmes with local schools, community groups and larger bodies, with the aim of creating a real esports culture and ethos at the college.
Learners on the esports programme will also get the chance to represent the college’s esports team in competitions and tournaments.
Opening the suite, G2 Online Events Manager and gaming legend Jake Murton - aka JakeBoyPro, commented “It’s so great to be here today to officially launch this fantastic new gaming suite. To have a facility like this available for learners is absolutely brilliant. It will be such an invaluable resource and environment to help them develop the industry relevant gaming skills and techniques and equip them for a career in this booming industry.
I’m proof of the opportunities that are available in this industry. I started out with an interest in gaming which has now seen me develop my skills and successfully gain a role within one of the leading global esports and entertainment brands.
Speaking at the launch, College Principal, Lisa Thomas, commented “We are delighted to be launching this brand new state of the art gaming facility and esports course for learners. With the esports industry currently predicted to be valued at $1.79 billion in 2022 and still growing, we are looking forward to supporting learners to develop the key skills and knowledge they need to progress successfully into the wide range of career opportunities on offer across both esports and other closely linked digital industries.”
“From broadcast and production through to coaching, management, journalists, PR and marketing, social media or pro gamers, the career opportunities are vast.
“For those learners who may be seeking to progress straight on to a degree or higher level apprenticeship, we are also working closely with the University of South Wales to develop a new Esports Foundation Degree that will, subject to validation and approval, launch at the college for September 2022. The degree, which will be the first of its kind in South Wales will provide learners with the opportunity to further their skills and knowledge in this area and obtain a level 5 qualification.”
Speaking at the launch, Dawn Bowden, Deputy Minister for Arts and Sport, and Chief Whip, commented “I am delighted to join the opening of this new esports facility at the college. Esports is a growing industry and it is brilliant to see how the college has invested in facilities to support the future development of skills in this area.”
