A growing number of UK students are advocating for esports to be integrated into school curriculums, with 75% of respondents in a recent survey supporting its inclusion. The study, commissioned by Tencent in collaboration with the British Esports Federation and Ukie, highlights the increasing popularity and potential of esports as a viable educational and career pathway.
The research, conducted by Censuswide, surveyed 2,000 individuals aged 16 to 27 who expressed interest in the creative and entertainment industries. Among those surveyed, 64% were already involved in esports-related academic activities, showcasing its growing footprint in education. Interestingly, 58% of participants believed that esports is more accessible as a career compared to traditional fields such as law or engineering.
However, despite its accessibility, barriers remain for those pursuing a future in esports. The survey revealed that 36% of respondents encountered financial challenges when considering further education in esports, and 33% felt that career pathways within the industry were unclear. While 16 higher education institutions in the UK currently offer degree programs related to esports, more work is needed to make these opportunities widely available and attainable.
Tom Dore, Vice President of the British Esports Federation, emphasized the importance of including esports in educational frameworks. “Esports in curricula in secondary, further, and higher education equips young people with the skills needed for careers in esports, gaming, and the wider digital, creative, and STEM sectors,” he explained. Dore also highlighted the importance of support from video game publishers and industry stakeholders to sustain growth, develop grassroots initiatives, and create clear career pathways in the esports ecosystem.
Nick Poole, CEO of Ukie, echoed these sentiments, underlining the critical role esports plays in shaping future job markets and creative opportunities. “Esports offers young people the chance to develop skills and pursue careers at the intersection of technology, media, and interactive entertainment,” Poole said. He also noted the UK’s strong position in the global esports scene, citing its successful history of hosting major tournaments and its status as home to Europe’s largest community of student esports players. “To build on this momentum, we must continue to invest in education, infrastructure, and cross-industry collaboration,” he added.
The survey reflects a cultural shift toward recognizing esports not just as a form of entertainment, but as a legitimate educational and professional field. With continued investment in esports education and industry support, the UK has the potential to become a global leader in the sector. This growing enthusiasm among students signals a promising future for esports, blending technology, creativity, and career development in a way that resonates with the next generation.
