Abertay University launches Scotland's first ever Festival of Play for young creatives

Abertay University will host a creative careers and computing conference for school pupils this summer, marking the event’s first time in Scotland.  

Organised by Digital Schoolhouse in partnership with Electronic Arts, the Festival of Play is designed for children aged 9-14 and will feature interactive workshops, talks from industry professionals, and opportunities to engage with innovative games, all aimed at showcasing various career paths in the video games industry. 

The Festival will take place at Abertay on June 10 followed by a further event at the University of Westminster in London at the beginning of July.  

Participants will have the chance to learn about gaming technology, meet industry professionals, explore STEAM career options, and gain hands-on experience with creative tools. 

In addition to benefiting students, the Festival of Play will also offer professional development opportunities for teachers, equipping them with effective methods for incorporating computing lessons into their classrooms. 

Ryan Locke, Head of Centre for Excellence in Computer Games Education, said:  

We are delighted to be hosting the Festival of Play for the first time in Scotland! This event reflects our commitment to nurturing creativity and discovery in the next generation. Engaging children and getting them interested early in vital STEAM (Science, Technology, Arts, and Maths) subjects not only fosters their imagination and intellect but also begins to equip them with essential skills for future careers in the dynamic and ever-evolving industries like video games, cyber security, and technology.  

Previous editions of the Festival have demonstrated positive outcomes, with 90% of teachers reported improved understanding of computing in relation to video games, while 80% noted a positive impact on their teaching practices.  

Additionally, 56% of students indicated an interest in pursuing careers in the gaming sector. 

Shahneila Saeed, Director of Digital Schoolhouse:  

We are thrilled to expand the Festival of Play this year, thanks to the continued support of Electronic Arts. Dundee has become a creative hub for the UK’s world leading video games industry, so bringing the festival here provides hugely exciting opportunities for students to learn about what careers opportunities can be available in video games.

The conference offers a valuable opportunity for teachers as well as pupils. It provides a platform for continuing professional development, enabling teachers to enhance their skills and deliver engaging computing lessons that incorporate fun and interactive teaching methods. 

Digital Schoolhouse is delivered by the UK games industry trade body Ukie and is backed by the video games industry and government. Sponsors include Xbox, Electronic Arts, SEGA, Ubisoft and Outright Games.  

Jaimie Vargas, Head of Global Social Impact at Electronic Arts, said:  

The Festival of Play exemplifies how play-based STEAM learning can ignite creativity and equip students with next-generation skills that help them unlock their potential. We are delighted to continue this partnership and provide even more students across the UK with access to these valuable opportunities.

Schools interested in participating in the Festival of Play can register via Eventbrite. While attendance is free, schools are required to pay a refundable deposit upon registration. 

Industry professionals are also invited to engage with students and teachers by showcasing their games or leading workshops. Interested parties can contact the Digital Schoolhouse team for further details.