Schools in Carmarthenshire are taking part in an eSports competition and are learning about the gaming industry and its allied professions at the same time.
The Gaming Heroes competition is part of a series of day workshops for schools delivered at Coleg Sir Gâr’s Graig campus in conjunction with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) and is facilitated by Esports Wales.
Learners from Coleg Sir Gâr, Coedcae School, Bryngwyn School, Ysgol Gyfun Emlyn, Ysgol Dyffryn Aman, and St John Lloyd School are each taking part in the eSports Competition which comprises up to 50 young learners from each school taking part in workshops followed by playing the game ‘Fall Guys’. They control a customisable character, often referred to as a “bean,” and compete in various obstacle courses and mini-games against each other. The goal is to survive each round and be the last bean standing.
The aim of the events is to develop the digital skills of the learners as well as to demonstrate the range of careers available in the gaming industry and aligned professions such as coding, game design, podcasting and creative industries more broadly as well as the courses and qualifications available locally. eSports gives a variety of transferrable valuable skills and attributes which are applicable in the workplace and include teamwork, strategic thinking and leadership skills so beneficial for the future.
The workshops also include sessions digital skills, gaming design, cyber security, an exploration of how to the gaming industry is funded, as well as sessions on careers, wellbeing and the training programmes available at further and higher education, including apprenticeships.
The project is funded through Carmarthenshire County Council’s Shared Prosperity Fund following a successful bid submitted jointly by UWTSD’s Civic Engagement team and Coleg Sir Gâr who are delivering the project.
Mark Richards, Assistant Director of Engineering, Technology, Creative Arts and Sport from Coleg Sir Gâr added: “We’re delighted to host this event in our popular eSports suite. It’s a fantastic opportunity for young people to immerse themselves in the digital landscape, combining their digital skills with creativity and the competitive spirit of sport. Partnering with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, local schools, and Esports Wales, who are supporting pupils to develop awareness of the many digital career pathways available in Carmarthenshire and the wider region”.
Richard Morgan, lecturer in Computing at UWTSD said:
“The Gaming Heroes competition has been a great opportunity for UWTSD to engage with Coleg Sir Gar, Esports Wales and young learners across the region who are keen to develop their digital skills through the medium of games and entertainment.
“We consider this a learning experience for Higher Education too, as building links between academic partners, professional entities and, most importantly, those hoping to continue to study in these fields. This allows us to better understand how collaborative efforts can help raise awareness and provide opportunities for a range of creative digital career choices for the next generation”.
Mr Steffan Hubbard, Head of Welsh Baccalaureate and ICT Teacher at Ysgol Gyfun Emlyn said: “Attending the Gaming Heroes convention at Coleg Sir Gar empowers pupils by showcasing career pathways in the esports industry, fostering skills in teamwork, communication, and technology, and igniting passions that can lead to future success in gaming and beyond”.
John Jackson, Director of Esports Wales said: “The eSports industry continues to grow in Wales, not just as a form of entertainment but as a key platform for career development in the digital and creative sectors. Our project at Esports Wales plays a crucial role in harnessing this potential, providing pathways for young people and professionals to excel in gaming, technology, and beyond, while also fostering local communities through our innovative programmes.”
An Awards Event will be held for the competitors at Yr Egin at the University’s Carmarthen campus on the 25 November with follow up careers’ events to be held in December at the University. The Awards host is Ameer Davies-Rana, an experienced S4C and BBC Radio Cymru presenter who makes regular visits into schools and universities to promote the Welsh language. Trophies will be presented to the team winners from each schools followed by a celebratory lunch.
