NAS Dubai launches esports BTEC in partnership with EStars

Private school group Nord Anglia International School Dubai (NAS Dubai) has announced a partnership with esports education company EStars.

As a result, NAS Dubai will offer the International BTEC in esports created by educational services company Pearson.

The International BTEC in esports offers students an insight into various aspects of the esports industry. According to a release, NAS Dubai’s qualification offering aligns with Dubai’s Gaming Strategy 2033 initiative which aims to create 30,000 new jobs in the region and add $1bn (~£798.9m) to its GDP.

Founded in 2017, EStars provides a range of esports qualifications including NOCN Certified certificates and Level 2 and 3 BTECs. In May 2023, Gavin Petken and Ed Woodward were revealed as members of its Board of Directors.

Alongside its esports offerings, NAS Dubai offers early years, primary, secondary, and sixth form curriculums.

Dubai and the Middle East continue to attract attention from various industry stakeholders. In May 2024, a Dubai-based investor acquired 8.28% of the voting shares of Guild Esports. In 2022, it was announced that the Global Esports Federation will host its Global Esports Games in the city in 2025.

Matthew Farthing, Principal of NAS Dubai, commented on the news: “At NAS Dubai, we continuously strive to offer programmes that resonate with the changing landscape of work and education.

“Partnering with EStars to bring the International BTEC in Esports to our students allows us to embrace innovation and prepare our learners for the future. We are excited to see our students engage with the course and develop new skills that are in demand across the globe.”