Esports in Higher Education

Getting ahead of the game

Education providers have quickly spotted the growth and educational opportunities of Esports. It is key to attracting and engaging students.

more than just games

Why Esports in Education?

Esports are a hugely popular recreational activity that can provide many job opportunities worldwide. As the industry continues to grow, more pathways are created for esports careers by developing demand for people with specific skills. The British Esports Federation has acknowledged and welcomed this and is leading the way in esports education to create pathways for young people seeking careers in esports and other closely linked digital industries.

Esports are here to stay. Any institution looking to foster a learning environment that goes beyond traditional education needs to be exploring the world of esports. With the right tech, support and mindset, your school is poised to capitalise on the growing popularity of competitive gaming.

Why institutions are looking to introduce an Esports curriculum

Top gamers can earn millions a year in prize money and endorsements – money they use to hire nutritionists, physiotherapists, chefs, sleep coaches and publicists. The industry has created plenty of other jobs as well: shoutcasters (commentators), IT teams, scouts, statisticians, graphic designers, video editors, event planners, journalists, accountants and promoters all work to make esports possible and accessible.

Esports helps students develop critical thinking and problem-solving, which are essential skills for success in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Esports reaches students in their own space, opening the door to discussing their passions and possible curriculum or career paths.

Gaming can help students unconsciously foster their team-building, collaboration and communication skills. It also helps to nurture creative and strategic thinking, giving students the self-confidence to participate in more activities.

In 2020, the British Esports Association (BEA) and examining board Pearson Edexcel collaborated on a world first: the Esports BTEC Level 3 qualification. The qualification also develops career skills like problem-solving, communication, teamwork and self-confidence.

From gamers to graduates

Here’s how students benefit from a school esports programme.

Character development

Esports help to build character and develop discipline, self-esteem, patience and sportsmanship.

Teamwork and leadership

Regular competitive gaming in teams helps students improve communication and leadership.

Diversity and inclusion

Esports allow students with physical disabilities to participate in rewarding activities and develop essential life skills.

Strategic thinking

When playing intense and fast-paced real-time strategy games, students learn to adapt quickly to solve problems.

Gateway to STEM

Esports reach students in their own space, opening the door to discussing their passions and possible curriculum or career paths.

Enrolment

An exciting esports programme can help schools stand out against the competition, potentially increasing enrolment numbers.

Why Lenovo for esports?

Lenovo delivers a consultative end-to-end offering from design and construction to operations management and products, led by an esports expert.

  • Lenovo’s esports solution delivers consultation and all the hardware and software needed to set up arenas, teams and leagues.
  • Gaming experts to help you design esports programmes and measurement metrics.
  • Dedicated esports devices from Lenovo’s Legion line, including workstations, gaming servers, gaming furniture, headsets and accessories.
  • Additional services cover financing, warranty extensions and tournament programming.

Workstations

Power up your esports programme with custom builds to your specifications.

Choose your tools​

Desktops, laptops, workstations, monitors, gaming servers, furniture and accessories. Power your esports programme and inspire your students.

Gaming servers

High reliability, performance and security, plus easy management and quick servicing.

Legion range

Legion towers and laptops are designed by gamers to keep your teams competitive.

Accessories

Elevate your esports programme with high-quality headsets, keyboards and mice.

Monitors

Legion monitors offer fast refresh rates and ultra-fast response times for a premium experience.

Don't wait: Game on!​

To discuss your HE Esports device requirements and our wider solutions services please contact us.

Contact our sales team

For product support, customer services or other general enquiries, our team are ready to help.