City in the Community and Oldham College launch esports programme

City in the Community, the charity of English football club Manchester City, and Oldham College have launched an esports programme.

Starting in September, the esports course will form part of the charity’s BTEC programme.

Those participating in City in the Community‘s course will have an opportunity to earn a Level 2 Certificate in Esports after one year and a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Esports for completing the two-year programme. According to a release, the course aims to ‘provide students with comprehensive education and training in esports.’

The esports course will feature units highlighting a variety of titles and organisations that participate in them. The course will also include topics such as streaming, events and the health and wellbeing of esports players. Alongside studying various aspects of the industry, the course will aim to develop and prepare students for a potential career within esports.

Founded in 1986, City in the Community supports people across Greater Manchester placing physical and mental health at the forefront of its projects. Man City football club is also no stranger to the esports industry. In June 2024, its esports division opened a gaming facility inside the Etihad Stadium for its EA Sports FC 24 and Fortnite players to practice and compete in competitions.

Esports BTECs continue to provide students with opportunities to learn about the industry. In March, Pearson and British Esports launched Higher National qualifications that aim to offer a route into a career and to provide a range of transferrable skills.

Jonathan Pauley, 11+ Education Manager at City in the Community, spoke on the launch of the programme: “We are incredibly excited to launch this new esports partnership with Oldham College.

“The esports initiative will also enhance students’ professional development and networking opportunities. They will be able to combine academic learning with practical experience, with an emphasis on teamwork, health, and well-being, whilst also encouraging innovation and creativity.”