Microsoft has announced a digital Xbox Academy to inspire the next generation of games creators in the UK.
Microsoft Store has teamed up with BAFTA award-winning Rare, the creator of Sea of Thieves, Microsoft Education and East London Arts and Music (ELAM) to give year nine and 10 pupils in schools across the UK an insight into the gaming sector during Microsoft’s Work Experience Week (May 10-13).
The first livestreamed Xbox Academy session will feature four representatives from Rare, who will each discuss their roles and career path in areas such as production, design, engineering and quality assurance. Attendees will then hear from representatives of ELAM, who will provide an academic context to entering the world of games development.
A further session will feature the team at Into Games delivering insights and practical advice on how young people can set about finding a rewarding career in the games industry.
“We’re so excited that our Rare team is going to be delivering a session for the Xbox Academy,” said Craig Duncan, Studio Head of Rare. “The future is so bright for games and we’re passionate about helping educate and inspire the next generation of games professionals, giving them insights to help them choose a career within our industry.”
Hosted online, Microsoft’s Work Experience Week will offer students in years nine and 10 an insights into life at Microsoft and what early-in-career looks like within the company. Attendees will have the chance to hear from senior executives and their career stories, including UK CEO Clare Barclay and Director of Education Chris Rothwell.
Curtis Le Blanc, Director of Games at East London Arts and Music, said: “We’re very proud to be teaming up with Microsoft Store and Rare to deliver an invaluable perspective on working in games once again, following our first partnership last year. Rare is at the forefront of the UK gaming industry, so attendees will be getting a wealth of knowledge and advice to set them up for a potential future career in gaming.”
The Xbox Academy takes place on the afternoon of Monday, May 10. To sign up for this and other workshops and training sessions being offered by Microsoft Store, click here.
