How students across the region are exploring the exciting world of Esports

Published on 17, December, 2025

Students from schools across the north-east have taken part in an Esports challenge over the last academic year supported by the University of Sunderland.

The Esports Challenge, delivered in partnership with the Foundation of Light and supported by Community Foundation North East, aimed to inspire students across the region to learn and engage with the esports and gaming industry.

Over the course of the last academic year, pupils from North Durham Academy, Wellfield School, the Beacon of Light and Consett Academy, developed pitches of their own Esports games over a series of workshops and activities developed by the University and delivered by the Foundation of Light.

Marking the end of the project, pupils who took part in the challenge attended an event at the University to celebrate its completion and delivered a Q&A session to offer advice and insight for the next year’s participants.

Students also had the chance to experience the University’s facilities and get involved in computer game coding and stop motion animation activities.

Wendy Price OBE, Head of Widening Access and Participation at the University, said: “We were delighted to welcome pupils from across the region to the University of Sunderland to celebrate their participation and achievements as part of the Esports Challenge.

“The computer science taster sessions delivered by our academic staff meant that pupils could build on their esports knowledge and experience and apply it in a University setting. Pupils also gained a valuable insight into student life and the opportunities available to them at University.

“We are very grateful to the Foundation of Light for leading on the delivery of the esports curriculum for this programme, and to the Platten Family Fund for providing funding.”

Lesley Spuhler, Foundation of Light Chief Executive said: “At Foundation of Light, we’re passionate about helping young people discover their potential through education, teamwork and technology. The Esports Challenge has opened up new pathways for students to learn, grow and see how their enthusiasm for gaming can lead to exciting opportunities.”

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Over the past year, this project was made possible through the support of the Platten Family Fund at Community Foundation North East.

The Community Foundation North East is a charity that aims to build a thriving, generous and inclusive North East today and for generations to come by inspiring philanthropy, investing in communities and influencing change.

Ross Wilson, Senior Philanthropy Advisor at Community Foundation North East, said: “At Community Foundation North East, we’re excited to have supported the Esports Challenge through the Platten Family Fund. It’s a fantastic example of how local philanthropy can help young people explore creative industries, build new skills and broaden their horizons.”