Newcastle United Foundation, the official charity arm of Premier League club Newcastle United, has partnered with Newcastle College to launch an interactive esports programme for students.
As a result, one and two-year BTEC Level 2 and 3 diplomas will be made available to students, who will be given the chance to represent Newcastle United Foundation in organised competitions throughout the academic year.
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Applications for the BTEC Level 2 and Level 3 diplomas are now open for enrolment for September 2021. The Newcastle United Foundation is hosting a dedicated recruitment event on April 29th, as well as a FIFA tournament at Newcastle College on April 30th.
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.”
Jake ‘PlanetToast’ Simpson, a top-ranking UK FIFA player that represents Newcastle United in the official ePremierLeague, will take part in the new programme as a consultant and speaker.
Both course curriculums will cover various aspects of the esports industry from competitive gaming, livestream event management, and game business entrepreneurship, as well as preparing students for employment.
According to a release, students will develop transferable skills and wider knowledge around ‘teamwork, leadership, strategic thinking and financial planning’.
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Scott Bullock, Principal of Newcastle College, added: “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.
“Esports education offers a new and innovative qualification for young people to learn and develop their knowledge and skills to prepare for their own journey into a new type of career and enjoy opportunities to join a thriving games sector.”
Esports Insider says: A viable ecosystem and path to pro are essential for the esports industry to continue its upward trajectory. Traditional sports organisations, like Newcastle United, understands the need for young players to get involved early and learn the skills needed for future opportunities.
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