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Esports academy puts students in pole position
Posted: 07/07/2025
Our latest academy partnership, with two leading tech companies, is set to see the Esports department in pole position for the future.
The academy, which features industry-standard Esports rigs supplied by Ebuyer and GT Omega, has already seen a boost to the Esports team’s performance, and to teaching and learning in the department.
While the College has more than 20 academies with organisations across industries, the Ebuyer/GT Omega Academy is unique in that it was initially sparked by a student – who contacted Ebuyer to propose a collaboration.
Higher Education Esports student Jamie Swift, who initiated the idea, said: “I initially contacted Ebuyer due to wanting a partnership that would help improve the facilities of the F1 team. When I contacted them, I had a good feeling that they'd be willing to help us with our target.
“When I look at the finished academy, I feel proud that I’ve been able to accomplish this. I’m confident with the support I’ve had from the department that we can achieve what we wanted – which is to make our Esports team the best it can be.”
Barnsley College’s academy scheme provides businesses with opportunities to develop the curriculum with the skills most needed for the future – while giving students unique experiences such as placements, visits and workshops that fully prepare them for the world of work.
Matt Egginton, Barnsley College Programme Manager for Sport, Public Services, Travel and Tourism, said: “There's absolutely no doubt that this academy and these facilities are a brilliant benefit for our students. Our vision for the department is to be externally focused, and give our students broader experience than what they can traditionally get in the classroom.
“The only way that we can be successful is in collaboration. This is what that looks like in Esports. Ultimately, it's about collaboration for the benefit and the needs of Barnsley and South Yorkshire.”
Rich Marsden, CEO of Ebuyer, said: “At Ebuyer, our main passion is working in grassroots, in institutions such as the College, where we have the ability to support young adults and people who are trying to excel at what they do.
“It's great to see that the small contribution that we've made so far has made such a positive impact for the College, and we look forward to building on that.
“We’re a big believer in developing young talent in our organisation. We’ve got so many disciplines in our business, from logistics to marketing to PC building, to finance to IT.
“We are constantly looking for talent, and so hopefully this partnership can give opportunities post-College to some of the students, and certainly if any students are looking for work experience, we would welcome them.”
Helen Weatherston, Director of Business Development at Barnsley College, said: “The time that Ebuyer put in to support the College and our students is amazing, and we thank them for that.
“I think this academy will go from strength to strength, and ensure our Esports students have the best possible facilities, opportunities and experience to get into the industry.”
