Manchester is poised for a significant enhancement in its technology sector with the impending launch of a £1 million video games college.
As a leading industry in the creative sector, the gaming industry contributes substantially to the UK’s economy, highlighting the importance of educational initiatives like this one.
Manchester’s video games industry is experiencing a renaissance, positioning itself as a key player on the global stage. The establishment of the £1 million gaming college by Access to Games marks a pivotal moment in nurturing local talent and responding to the rapid growth of this creative sector.
Access to Games, a branch of Access to Music, is investing heavily in state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge software, aiming to equip students with the skills needed to excel in the gaming industry. The college will be led by Mikael Hellberg, a seasoned game developer from Sweden, who brings a wealth of experience and a vision for a creative and collaborative educational environment.
The college’s curriculum is designed to align with the evolving needs of the gaming industry, offering specialised courses in game art, character modelling, and animation. Emphasising a practical approach, the courses also cover vital business aspects such as marketing and distribution, ensuring students are well-rounded and industry-ready.
“Manchester’s games and tech sector competes on a global level,” says Hellberg. To sustain this competitive edge and meet the sector’s future growth, nurturing home-grown talent is imperative, he adds.
Access to Games is not just another educational entity; it’s part of a bigger vision under Access to Music, a national creative college renowned for training celebrated music talents like Ed Sheeran.
Celebrating 25 years in creative education, Access to Music aims to replicate its success in music with gaming, contributing to a rapidly growing creative sector.
“We look forward to training the next generation of gaming talent,” states Jason Beaumont, director of business development, reinforcing their commitment to shaping the future of the industry.
The new gaming college represents a significant investment in Manchester’s economic future, as the gaming industry continues to expand its contribution to the UK economy. With over £4 billion added in 2016 alone, educational initiatives like this are critical to maintaining momentum.
The college is expected to have a profound impact on the local economy by providing skilled graduates ready to meet industry demands. This aligns with Manchester’s ambition to remain a leading city for technological innovation.
The institution’s strategic location in the heart of Manchester ensures accessibility, further solidifying the city’s status as a hub for creative industries.
The new £1 million video games college in Manchester represents a forward-thinking educational initiative that aligns with the rapid growth of the gaming industry.
By investing in local talent and providing industry-relevant training, the college is set to become a cornerstone of Manchester’s technological advancement, preparing students for successful careers.