A Unique Collaboration Between Students and Industry Experts
Students from Warrington and Vale Royal College have recently completed a challenging and innovative project that has provided them with valuable real-world experience in the gaming industry. This initiative was made possible through a partnership with 10:10 Games, a well-known video game developer. The students were given a unique opportunity to design a three-minute game slice that combined elements of the studio’s first game, Funko Fusion, with the iconic style and humor of The Simpsons.
This live brief served as both a technical and creative challenge for the students, testing their abilities to think critically and develop original ideas. Working in teams, they explored various concepts and presented detailed pitches to showcase their work. Their final projects were displayed at the college’s Barton Theatre, where they had the chance to present their ideas to seven senior members of the 10:10 Games team, including Arthur Parsons, co-founder of the studio and a fellow of the college.
Throughout the project, the students received continuous guidance and support from the 10:10 Games team. These interactions played a crucial role in helping them understand the expectations and standards of a modern games studio. Additionally, the collaboration provided an excellent networking opportunity, allowing students to connect with key industry professionals.
Tutor Damien Coulson highlighted the importance of this partnership, stating that it offers students opportunities that are rare in many other educational institutions. He noted that while some university students may not get such close exposure to real-world development, the students at Warrington and Vale Royal College leave with both the necessary skills and industry experience that give them a competitive edge.
Harry Farmer, a former student of Sir Thomas Boteler C of E High School, shared his positive experience working on the project. He described the task as both fun and challenging, emphasizing how the feedback he received helped him better understand how to work within a brief and prepare for the realities of game development.
Jack Crossley, another student, explained that he chose to join this course after seeing the impressive work of previous students and the college’s strong connections with industry leaders like 10:10 Games. He expressed that the project confirmed he is on the right path toward his dream career.
Live briefs are an essential part of the college’s strategy to integrate employer partnerships into its curriculum. By involving students in real-world projects, the college ensures that they gain practical experience and develop the skills needed to succeed in the competitive gaming industry.
This successful collaboration between Warrington and Vale Royal College and 10:10 Games serves as a model for how educational institutions can work closely with industry experts to provide students with meaningful learning experiences. It also highlights the benefits of such partnerships in preparing future talent for the challenges of the professional world.
