English football club Man City has released a promotional video to showcase its esports academy programme.
Developed in collaboration with City in the Community (CITC), the video highlights the initiative, which offers a BTEC qualification in esports.
Filmed with Oldham College, where the programme has been running since July 2024, the video gives a glimpse into the classroom, with students and instructors working on lessons tied to the course.
The curriculum includes units on health and wellbeing for esports players, esports broadcasting and analysis of titles used in esports tournaments.
Man City’s esports academy programme provides students the opportunity to earn a Level 2 Certificate in Esports after one year. Alternatively, students can earn a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Esports after two years.
“The Manchester City Esports Academy programme is an exciting addition to our City BTEC pathway, providing learners with a dynamic and engaging educational experience,” said Jonathan Pauley, 11+ Education Manager at City in the Community.
“The course not only equips students with the technical skills and industry knowledge needed for a career in esports but also supports their personal development.”
Rio, a participant on the course added: “Rio, a participant on the course said: “It’s [the course] helped with my anxiety.
“I didn’t do very well in high school. I had a very low attendance, but the college overall has helped me with support and the course is that good I’ve actually wanted to go [to college].”
The involvement Man City has in esports
Outside of their esports academy programme, Man City has a big involvement in esports and this year became the first back-to-back ePremier League winners.
City players Donovan ‘Tekkz’ Hunt (UK) and Matias Bonanno (Argentina) beat Brighton & Hove Albion 6-5 on aggregate.
The pair also featured in the eChampions League which started in Salford. However, they failed to progress to the eight-man finals which were held in Munich.
In June 2024, the club opened up a gaming facility for their EA Sports FC and Fortnite players to practice.
The club also collaborated with esports organisation Gen.G ahead of the 2024 League of Legends Championship.
Kieran Lynch is an esports journalist who writes about several games including EA Sports FC 25, Call of Duty, Rainbox Six Siege, and more. He previously worked as a sports journalist for MailOnline.
