Southwest Schools Showcase 2026: Over 100 Students Compete in Inclusive Esports Tournament at Teignmouth Community School

Lee Astley, Senior Editor

Last Updated: 05/03/2026

The Southwest Schools Showcase 2026 esports tournament successfully united young gamers from across the West Country, with more than 100 students from 10 schools taking part in a vibrant day of competition at Teignmouth Community School in Devon on February 26, 2026.

Organised by students at Teignmouth Community School as part of their BTEC esports coursework, this marked the second edition of the event.

It has grown significantly since last year’s inaugural tournament, expanding from six schools competing in one game to 10 schools across four popular titles.

Key Games and Competitive Format in Southwest Schools Showcase 2026

Competitors battled it out in Rocket League, Fortnite, F1 (Nevada F1 Hotlap Challenge), and FC 26 (Nevada FC26 Challenge Cup). The format featured school teams in live LAN tournaments, emphasising skill, teamwork, and fair play.

Notable results included:

• Rocket League: Haygrove School took first place, with West Exe School in second and Teign School in third.
• Fortnite: West Exe School claimed victory, Teignmouth Community School (T6 Esports) finished second, and Devonport High School for Boys placed third.
• F1: Devonport High School for Boys won, followed by Teignmouth Community School in second.
• FC 26: Teignmouth Community School secured first place.

Participating schools represented a mix of backgrounds: Devonport High School for Boys (Plymouth), Haygrove School (Somerset), West Exe School (Devon), Teign School (Devon), Cullompton College (Devon), Avanti Park School (Somerset), Uffculme School, Southbrook School (Exeter), Glendinning Academy (Devon), and hosts Teignmouth Community School.

Inclusivity and Diversity at the Heart of the Event

A standout feature was the event’s strong focus on inclusivity.

Schools fielded teams regardless of age, gender, or additional learning needs, with participants from mainstream comprehensives, boys’ schools, and specialist provision settings all competing on equal terms.

All-girl teams featured in both Rocket League and Fortnite, showcasing growing female participation in esports.

Michael Feeney, head of vocational computing and esports at Teignmouth Community School, highlighted this aspect: “We’ve got a variety of schools here… and they’re able to play on a level playing field, because unlike traditional sports, your ability to game is not dependent on your age, or your physical stature or anything else other than how you can use that controller.”

Student organiser Rosie Oates added: “Last night we worked so hard on setting it all up… and to see it actually in action and to see people playing the games and enjoying themselves is amazing, I love it.”

Growing Impact on Youth Esports and Education

The tournament received local business sponsorship and media attention, including a news segment on ITV Westcountry.

Many participating schools are now looking to establish or expand esports clubs and integrate the activity into their curriculum, inspired by the event’s success.

Organisers plan to launch a Southwest Schools esports hub on Discord to connect schools, share resources, arrange informal matches, and build on this regional collaboration.

Events like the Southwest Schools Showcase 2026 demonstrate how esports can foster teamwork, resilience, and inclusion among young people while providing valuable educational opportunities.

Lee Astley, Senior Editor

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