Explore Frequently
Asked Questions

Explore our range of Frequently Asked Questions from Who are British Esports?  to How do I enter the British Esports Student Champs?

We’ve curated a range of FAQ’s that include more information about British Esports, some key questions around Esports in Education, important to things to know about Safeguarding and much more.


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Whether you’re seeking answers, looking for guidance, or simply curious, our FAQ provides informative responses to common questions.

British Esports FAQ

Questions we receive most frequently about British Esports.

The British Esports Federation is a leading authority of competitive amateur esports and its integration within educational curricula. Empowering the competitive facet of amateur esports while seamlessly integrating educational frameworks, the British Esports Federation is a trailblazer in harnessing the potential of esports as a competitive sport and a valuable educational tool.

Championing nationwide amateur grassroots esports while representing national interests globally, our award winning team spearheads the development of competitive grassroots video game tournaments across secondary schools, further education colleges, and alternative provision schools.

Featuring the biggest esports games, hundreds of institutions and thousands of amateur esports athletes, British Esports has developed the definitive competitive gaming platform for aspiring esports athletes in early education.

Focused on nurturing talent and fostering community growth, British Esports is carving out pathways for amateur athletes from grassroots esports to national representation at medal based events.

The British Esports Federation represents national interests on the global stage and champions the development and investment in the UK’s esports infrastructure.

As the recognised member of the Global Esports Federation for Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and founding member of the International Olympic Committee Esports and Gaming Liaison Group, British Esports is responsible for the selection and participation of athletes from GB and NI, The Isle of Man, The Channel Islands and UK Overseas Territories.

Developing cutting edge curriculum, we’ve pioneered the gamification of academic studies and classroom dynamics, launched award winning diversity and inclusivity initiatives, alongside the UK’s largest amateur grassroots esports tournament for competitive gamers in early education.

We are British Esports.

Discover more About British Esports.

As the national body, we’re at the forefront of grassroots esports, and represent the national interest on the global stage. 

Our award-winning team develops competitive grassroots video game tournaments for students at Secondary Schools, Further Education (FE) colleges and Alternative Provision (AP) schools, creates cutting edge esports curriculum, develops transferable skills and progression pathways in esports, creative, digital and STEM industries, and helps support infrastructure through building a state-of-the-art National Esports Performance Campus (NEPC), the UK’s most advanced esports and education performance centre, and a globally-recognised esports hub, capable of attracting and developing the UK’s very best esports and creative talent.

Committed to increasing diversity and inclusion in esports, we build projects and initiatives that showcase the potential of esports to bring about positive change in education and society as a whole.

Find out more about British Esports

The British Esports Federation is a not for profit organisation.  We collaborate with a variety of  partners and sponsors committed to promoting the development of esports at all levels, from grassroots to education, well being, accessibility, diversity, career pathways, government, and policy.

Any revenue that the British Esports Federation generates is reinvested back into the federation to ensure the continued operations and success of British Esports on the national and international stage.

Discover more About British Esports.

The British Esports Federation is a national body, granted permission by the British Government to represent British esports on the national and global stage.

We collaborate with government departments and world renowned organisations in education, esports, technology, sports, and safeguarding to drive innovation, promote best practices, and foster a safer and more inclusive esports ecosystem.

Discover more About British Esports.

British Esports does have a corporate structure.  Here are the key points:

Establishment: In January 2016, British Esports (company number 10038010) was officially recognised as the national body for esports in the UK by Sajid Javid MP, the then Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills.

Company Structure: British Esports is a private company limited by guarantee without share capital. It has special permission to not include “Limited” in its name.

Ownership: The sole owner of British Esports is OSL Sport Media Limited (company number: 06544860) (Onside Law). Onside Law’s shareholders are solicitors Oliver Hunt, Jamie Singer, Simon Thorp, and Chris Walsh, who are also members of Onside Law LLP, a regulated firm of solicitors.

Income and Property Use: All income and property of British Esports must be used to promote its objectives:

  • Increasing esports participation worldwide.
  • Regulating and governing esports.
  • Providing facilities for esports participation and competition.

Ownership and Management: Onside Law, as the sole member, does not receive any income from British Esports, nor does it have directors on the board or involvement in daily operations. British Esports is managed by its directors and supported by an Advisory Board.

Profit Reinvestment: British Esports must reinvest any profits back into the organisation to support its ongoing objectives. No directors or staff members have ownership interests or rights to share in any profits.

Subsidiary: British Esports Federation Limited (company number 10076349) (BEF) is a 100% owned subsidiary of British Esports. British Esports Federation is the trading arm that enters into contracts and holds trademarks for British Esports.

As with all not-for-profit organisations, British Esports must ensure that it’s a viable and sustainable entity.  As such it will, as and where appropriate, enter contractual arrangements for goods and services including:

  • Education
  • Partnerships and sponsorship
  • Consultancy
  • Rental use of kit, equipment and facilities.

It will also seek to look at grant and funding opportunities where it can deliver outcomes that benefit communities.

The British Esports Federation has leased a number of properties in Sunderland to enable the creation of the National Esports Performance Campus, which offer;

  • Classrooms
  • Esports bootcamp facilities
  • Gaming houses
  • Esports arena

Through these activities and resources, British Esports is dedicated to effectively supporting and growing the esports community.

We work with some of the world’s leading educational authorities, partners and wider stakeholders to develop cutting edge esports curriculum, modern, transferable skills and progression pathways in esports, creative, digital, business, sport and STEM industries.

There are a number of esports qualifications available at academic institutions throughout the UK including Pearson BTEC National, Higher National and International Qualifications in Esports, from Level 2 to Level 5 and short courses developed with the Leadership Skills Foundation in Level 1 and Level 2 Esports Leadership. 

As of 2023, close to 10,000 student learners aged 11+ have studied our qualifications.

For more information and to further understand the benefits that esports has in education, please visit our Education Hub or find your nearest provider on our approved Esports Centres Map.

Typically, we do not allow use of the British Esports logo (or associated logos) without prior approval.

If you’re unsure whether or not you can use the British Esports logo, Student Champs logo, Women in Esports logo, or any other logo or brand identity that belongs to the British Esports Federation, please reach out to our team who will be happy to help advise.

The British Esports Federation are frequently on the lookout for volunteers to support our various activations from tournament administration, to content writing and casting.  Volunteering can be a great way to gain valuable hands on experience and exposure of multiple roles and opportunities available in esports.

Explore our latest Careers.

Our Advisory Board was first established in 2016 to help provide advice and guidance on the various projects, pilots and initiatives of the British Esports Federation.

Our Advisory Board is governed by our Advisory Board Terms of Reference.

Our Advisory Board is composed of senior leaders from education, sports, video games, technology and esports.  

We do not accept open applications to become an Advisory Board Member at this stage.

The British Esports Federation works with a range of leading Game Advisors to ensure we stay up to date with all the latest developments across a range of esports games and communities.

We accept open applications to join our collection of Game Advisors.

We welcome applications from fans, enthusiasts and players with strong connections to the gaming and esports community.

For more information and available roles, please visit Our Careers.

We broadcast our Student Champs fixtures and coverage of major events including the Commonwealth Esports Championships, the Global Esports Games, and other IOC and EOC sanctioned esports events.

Subscribe to Twitch or YouTube to stay up to date with all the latest streams, broadcast and other video content.

You can also catch all of the latest action via Watch.

British Esports is the recognised member of the Global Esports Federation (GEF) for Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) and Northern Ireland amd is responsible for the participation in the Global Esports Games, of athletes from GB and NI, the Isle of Man, the Channel Islands and UK Overseas Territories which are not members of GEF.  We manage the representation and participation of national esports teams in the Global Esports Games, Commonwealth Esports Championships, and other International, and European Olympic sanctioned events.

British Esports hosts a variety of qualification tournaments, showcase matches, and other competitions, designed to identify and discover the best British talent to compete on the international stage.

Visit the National Teams for more information.

The British Esports Federation provide expert esports consultancy and advice to governments, federations, associations, educational institutions, sports organisations, tournament organisers and more.

We speak to students, parents, teachers, amateur and professional esports athletes as well as esports teams.

If you’re keen to speak to one of our team, simply head on over to our Contact Us page and submit an enquiry.

The British Esports Federations works with an exclusive number of leading brands and sponsors throughout the world of technology, sport, finance, safeguarding, investment and more.  The partners and sponsors we work with are carefully curated and align with our vision and values.

If you’re interested in working with The British Esports Federation to supercharge the UK’s esports eco system, get in touch with our Partnerships Team.

Student Champs FAQ

Questions we receive most frequently about the British Esports Student Champs.

The British Esports Student Champs is open to all students aged 12+ in schools and colleges throughout the UK.

Each school or college team must be managed by a full-time staff member at that institution.

Student Eligibility:

  • Players must be students of the same school or college in the UK.
  • Students must be registered full-time, or part-time (minimum of 4 hours a week)
  • Students who are on apprenticeships are eligible only if affiliated with a college. Staff members from the college are ultimately responsible for this decision.
  • Students studying higher education at college are eligible

If you are uncertain about student eligibility, please read our Student Champs Ruleset or raise a ticket.

Esports Education FAQ

Questions we receive most frequently about Esports and Education.

We work with some of the world’s leading educational authorities, partners and wider stakeholders to develop cutting edge esports curriculum, modern, transferable skills and progression pathways in esports, creative, digital, business, sport and STEM industries.

There are a number of esports qualifications available at academic institutions throughout the UK including Pearson BTEC National, Higher National and International Qualifications in Esports, from Level 2 to Level 5 and short courses developed with the Leadership Skills Foundation in Level 1 and Level 2 Esports Leadership. 

As of 2023, close to 10,000 student learners aged 11+ have studied our qualifications.

For more information and to further understand the benefits that esports has in education, please visit our Education Hub or find your nearest provider on our approved Esports Centres Map.

The British Esports Federation have partnered with the Department for Education and the Duke of Edinburgh Award to create a provision that allows for students to leverage their studies and (or) participation in esports qualifications towards a DofE Award in Esports.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, famous for its Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards, offers esports as an official activity for its Skills section. 

To count as a Skills section activity, participants will need to play as part of a structured tournament, such as the British Esports Student Champs. 

Organisations that offer DofE programmes may also accept the playing of additional games (outside of the British Esports Student Champs).  

The DofE licences thousands of organisations that work with young people, including schools, colleges and youth groups, to run the DofE across the UK.

For more information on the Duke of Edinburgh Award in Esports, please visit Duke of Edinburgh.

When considering a UCAS application, it’s important to highlight the valuable experiences gained through participation in the British Esports Student Champs.

This presents an excellent opportunity to showcase personal development and relevant skills applicable to university progression, university life, and future careers. Universities highly value examples of student engagement in societies, effective time management, social skills, leadership abilities, teamwork, strategic thinking, dedication to improvement, digital proficiency, independence, and positive representation of the university and course as an ambassador. 

Additionally, the fact that you have represented your college in a national competition is noteworthy and demonstrates your ability to present yourself well both in-person and online. 

These achievements are certainly worth mentioning in your application. However, it is advisable to remain concise and prioritise discussing the aforementioned qualities rather than solely focusing on your in-game abilities, unless you are specifically applying for an esports scholarship and they specifically request information about this aspect.

Discover more about the leading amateur grassroots esports tournament for students in early education by visiting the British Esports Student Champs.

We recommend that all schools, colleges and universities consider the benefits of introducing an esports provision into their institution and the impact this can have on developing student communities, fostering 21st century learning, skills development and creating tangible career opportunities for learners. 

There are a number of ways of integrating esports education into your curriculum, this could be through recreational competition, gamification and digitalisation of learning or through delivering our range of government approved esports qualifications. 

Speak to our Education team or take a look at our range of esports education case studies featuring different schools, colleges and universities who have implemented an esports provision.

British Esports Federation host our annual Esports in Education Summit every February. It is at this time that we would advise any new schools or colleges to begin the implementation of their esports programmes ahead of the new academic year starting in September. During this time we have a track record of supporting centres to develop their curriculum intent and implementation of facilities and infrastructure. 

Once established, centres have demonstrated impact through improved engagement, attendance, recruitment, retention, success, achievement and progression to positive destinations. 

Each February, the British Esports Federation hosts the annual Esports in Education Summit, which serves as a pivotal juncture for advising new schools and colleges on the initiation of their esports programs in anticipation of the upcoming academic year commencing in September. 

During this period, we have a proven history of assisting institutions in crafting their curriculum intent and executing the setup of facilities and infrastructure. 

Once established, these centres have showcased tangible benefits, including heightened student engagement, enhanced attendance rates, elevated recruitment figures, improved student retention, greater academic success, notable achievements, and successful pathways towards positive future endeavours.

100% internally assessed, this course is progression focused and allows for practical and professional skills development.

The qualification also benefits from a compensatory grading model at Pass, Merit and Distinction, 16-18 and 19+ adult loan funding and UCAS points supporting direct progression to Higher Education and University.

The qualifications are truly cross-curricular in nature covering esports, business, sport, the creatives and STEM through a variety of units and modules such as:

  • Introduction to the Esports Industry
  • Enterprise and Entrepreneurship
  • Esports Skills, Strategy and Analysis
  • Health, Well being and Fitness for Esports Players
  • Esports Events
  • Games Design
  • Live-Streamed Broadcasting
  • Producing an Esports Brand
  • Shoutcasting
  • Esports Coaching
  • Psychology for Esports Performance
  • Nutrition for Esports Performance
  • Ethical and Current Issues in Esports
  • Launching your Esports Enterprise
  • Business Applications of Esports in Social Media
  • Corporate Social Responsibility in Sport
  • Sports and Esports Law and Legislation
  • Customer Immersion Experiences
  • Video Production

For more information on the various BTEC qualifications available in esports, take a look at our Education Hub.

More universities are recognising the value of esports and offering relevant courses, programmes, and facilities to support students interested in this field. 

The UK now boasts in excess of 40 university courses offered by 15 providers at the higher education level. 

As the only university provider dedicated to esports, College of Esports boasts an impressive array of 16 diverse esports course.

Furthermore, university students interested in competitive esports have the opportunity to participate in competitions and tournaments in such renowned leagues such as the National Esports University League (NUEL) or National Student Esports (NSE).

When applying for university is it is important to consider the following:

  • The UCAS application process
  • Student Finance and University fees
  • University Clearing
  • Location
  • Travel
  • Accommodation
  • Lifestyle
  • Leisure opportunities
  • Part-time employment opportunities
  • Support services
  • Overall student experience
  • Career Opportunities
  • Funding and Scholarships
  • Business Start-Up Support

For more information on the various courses and qualifications available in esports, take a look at our Education Hub.

Numerous institutions within British Esports’ expansive network of schools and colleges have taken proactive steps to establish esports academies that seamlessly integrate academic and sporting achievements. 

As the competitive landscape of teams participating in the British Esports Student Champs continues to evolve, so too does the level of support extended to students, bridging the gap between academic excellence and performance enhancement. 

This comprehensive approach includes training, competitive engagements, personalised one-on-one guidance, expert nutritional advice, coaching, psychological support, and thorough performance analysis – mirroring the operational model of conventional sports academies. 

This integrated structure is designed to not only foster the discovery and cultivation of talent but also ensure holistic player development over the long term.

Progression pathways from esports education programmes include careers in Esports as well as other associated industries such as Business, Law, Entrepreneurship, Finance, STEM careers, Sports Science, Sports Coaching, Nutrition, Psychology, Production, Events Management, Journalism, Games Development, Marketing, Social Media, Content Creation and even the Military and the Public Services.

Esports students represent a group of tech agile individuals with a reservoir, armoury, and repertoire of skills that will support our economy to grow and thrive.

Many schools and employers are still unaware of nature of skills developed through gaming and esports.

Explore the range of career pathways in esports by visiting our Education Hub.

Esports develops a huge range of transferable skills, which employers want, including; communication, teamwork, leadership, strategic thinking, resilience, creativity, and the ability to use initiative and react in pressurised situations.

In 2020, British Esports partnered with Global Awarding Organisation, Pearson, as we launched a suite of BTEC National and International Qualifications in Esports, which at the highest level are equivalent to 3 A-levels and 168 UCAS points. These qualifications have been studied by over 10,000 student learners, with continued growth expected.

With over 40 University Esports Degrees available from September 2023 and alumni progression into a variety of careers or Higher Education pathways , esports continues to support engagement, re-engagement, progression, recruitment, retention, and the success of students.

There are currently a number of qualifications available at schools, colleges and universities throughout the UK and internationally.  

For school and college students interested in esports, they can choose to study a Level 1 or Level 2 Esports Leadership Qualification from the age of 11+ or a Level 2 or Level 3 BTEC in Esports, from a Certificate to an Extended Diploma from the age of 14+.

For higher education and university students interested in studying esports, they can choose to study a HNC (L4) or HND (L5) in Esports or an esports undergraduate degree (L6) or postgraduate degree (L7). There are now over 40 different esports degrees available from 14 different universities. Our recommended university for esports degrees is the College of Esports, with whom we have an exclusive university level partnership.

Explore the full range of qualifications available in higher education and university by visiting UCAS.

There are a growing number of schools, colleges, and universities throughout the UK offering national qualifications in Esports. The schools and colleges delivering our Esports Qualifications or taking part in the British Esports Student Champs can all be found here on our Approved Centres Map

For Universities offering esports degree programmes, please explore UCAS.

British Esports have partnered with the Leadership Skills Foundation, previously known as Sports Leaders UK who have a rich history of developing Leadership Qualifications for over 30 years in Sport, STEM and more recently in Environmental and Esports Leadership to over 2 million learners. 

The Esports Leadership Qualifications are an innovative digital qualification with a focus on developing and honing leadership skills through esports, empowering learners with the confidence to believe, the qualities to lead and the skills to succeed in education, business and life. The Esports Leadership Qualifications at Level 1 and Level 2 have a focus on developing and gaining industry recognition for 5 key skills; communication, self-belief, teamwork, self-management and problem solving, through esports.

The qualifications align with the British Esports Student Champs and are appropriate for delivery from Year 7 to Year 13 meaning that more young people now have the opportunity alongside their esports enrichment to gain accreditation for their skill development.

The qualifications have also been mapped into and can be studied alongside the BTEC in esports, with mapped criteria to avoid duplication when deadlines are already tight and workload is high meaning no ‘extra’ work for students and teachers through a blended approach.

The qualifications are also designed to allow multiple levels within one class or to create a progression approach. 

Finally, the level is relevant to level of leadership and not academic level of study e.g. a Level 3 BTEC Esports student would study Level 1 or Level 2 Leadership in the same way they would enrol onto a Level 1 or Level 2 Sports Coaching badge.

A Higher National Certificate  (HNC) / Higher National Diploma (HND) in Esports is a Level 4 or a Level 5 qualification in esports and the associated pathway chosen from the General Pathway, Operations Management, Production, or Athlete Support and Development. 

The BTEC Higher National qualifications in Esports (2024) include enhanced work-related curriculum that is designed to address an increasing need for high quality professional and technical education pathways at Levels 4 and 5, equipping students with the right skills and competencies for the workplace, or progression to further higher education study.

These qualifications are typically aimed at students who are hoping to progress into a specific part of the esports industry, for students who can’t access a traditional university route or at adults who are looking to retrain to access industry, providing students with a transition into employment in associated careers. These qualifications were written in partnership between Pearson, British Esports and industry experts from across the education and esports industries.

For more information, visit British Esports partners, Pearson.

Safeguarding FAQ

Questions we receive most often regarding Safeguarding and Child Welfare.

Safeguarding means the action that is taken to promote the welfare of children and protect them from harm. It includes:

  • protecting children from abuse and maltreatment
  • preventing impairment to children’s physical and mental health and/or development
  • ensuring children grow up with the provision of safe and effective care
  • taking action to enable all children and young people to have the best outcomes
  • educating those around children to recognise the signs and dangers of abuse and neglect

It can happen anywhere, at any time, to anyone.

Should any safeguarding concerns or incidents be reported to the British Esports Federation, we will work through our safeguarding procedures created in partnership with the NSPCC to ensure the immediate safety of those involved.

For any immediate safeguarding concerns, we strongly recommend you get in contact with your local emergency services or local authority safeguarding teams.  Alternatively, you can contact the NSPCC, Childline, or CEOP.

Safeguarding is crucial in esports to create a safe environment that promotes healthy competition, personal development, and positive experiences for all participants. It helps prevent harassment, bullying, abuse, and exploitation, allowing everyone to enjoy esports without fear of harm.

It cultivates a secure and nurturing setting conducive to healthy competition, individual growth, and enriching experiences for all involved. 

By implementing safeguarding measures, esports communities strive to mitigate instances of harassment, bullying, abuse, and exploitation, fostering an environment where participants can engage and excel without apprehension or concern for their safety and well being. 

Ultimately, safeguarding plays a pivotal role in upholding the integrity of esports, ensuring that every individual, regardless of age or role, can participate and flourish in a safe, secure and supportive atmosphere.

Should any safeguarding concerns or incidents be reported to the British Esports Federation, we will work through our safeguarding procedures created in partnership with the NSPCC to ensure the immediate safety of those involved.

For any immediate safeguarding concerns, we strongly recommend you get in contact with your local emergency services or local authority safeguarding teams.  Alternatively, you can contact the NSPCC, Childline, or CEOP.

Safeguarding in esports applies to all individuals participating in the esports ecosystem, including players, coaches, staff, volunteers, fans, and especially minors. It also extends to online communities, events, and platforms related to esports.

Furthermore, it casts a protective net over the online communities, events, and platforms intricately linked to esports. The overarching goal is to ensure a safe and nurturing environment for everyone involved, fostering a culture that prioritises well being, security, and ethical conduct across all facets.

Should any safeguarding concerns or incidents be reported to the British Esports Federation, we will work through our safeguarding procedures created in partnership with the NSPCC to ensure the immediate safety of those involved.

For any immediate safeguarding concerns, we strongly recommend you get in contact with your local emergency services or local authority safeguarding teams.  Alternatively, you can contact the NSPCC, Childline, or CEOP.

Working with the NSPCC, the British Esports Federation has established a comprehensive safeguarding framework aimed at ensuring the safety and well being of all individuals involved across its spectrum of activities, communities and tournaments. This framework includes:

  • Formulating a governance structure with a designated safeguarding lead (DSL) to oversee and manage safeguarding concerns.
  • Implementing stringent recruitment procedures for staff and volunteers.
  • Promoting inclusion for marginalised groups, especially those with special educational needs or disabilities.
  • Integrating safeguarding expectations into partnership agreements and live events.
  • Enforcing clear codes of conduct for staff, volunteers, partners, and participants.
  • Developing robust procedures to respond to incidents of inappropriate online behaviour, peer-to-peer abuse, or allegations against staff or volunteers.
  • Offering support services and signposting children and young people to appropriate resources if they encounter harmful behaviour or abuse.
  • Ensuring ethical use of images of children and young people with their explicit consent.
  • Monitoring and enhancing safeguarding practices for continual improvement.

Additionally, British Esports focuses on infrastructure and technology measures, such as age appropriate game ratings, risk assessment of game content, regular security updates, and secure management of user information. 

Emphasising education and training by providing induction, safeguarding training, and ongoing support for staff and volunteers, British Esports actively participates in external initiatives for better safeguarding in the esports industry and offers guidance to schools, parents, and participants on safe online practices and reporting procedures.

British Esports upholds stringent standards to safeguard individuals participating in its activities, aligning with Information Commissioner’s Office standards and ensuring a secure and inclusive environment for all involved.

Common safeguarding concerns in esports encompass a spectrum of challenges. These often revolve around prevalent issues such as online harassment and cyberbullying, which can adversely impact individuals’ mental and emotional well being. 

Exploitation of minors, a critical concern, emphasises the need for stringent measures to protect young participants from potential risks and ensure their safety within the esports landscape.

Video game publishers and console manufacturers play a vital role in enhancing safeguarding measures for players within the gaming landscape. They often implement various tools and features designed to bolster safety protocols. These can include robust parental control options that enable guardians to manage and monitor their children’s gaming activities, ensuring age appropriate content consumption and limiting online interactions.

Should any safeguarding concerns or incidents be reported to the British Esports Federation, we will work through our safeguarding procedures created in partnership with the NSPCC to ensure the immediate safety of those involved.

For any immediate safeguarding concerns, we strongly recommend you get in contact with your local emergency services or local authority safeguarding teams.  Alternatively, you can contact the NSPCC, Childline, or CEOP.

British Esports recognise there are risks involved in participating in esports online. We prioritise the safeguarding and welfare of our staff, community members, tournament participants, students, and everyone else connected to our ecosystem, recognising and addressing any potential risks.

Our Safeguarding Team includes;

Overall British Esports Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

  • Head of International Relations, Tom Dore

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) National Esports Performance Campus, Sunderland:

  • Buildings and Operations Manager: Martin Heap

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads (DDSL):

  • Head of Partnerships, Gary Tibbett
  • Head of Operations, Alice Leaman
  • Head of Education, Kalam Neale

Should you have any safeguarding concerns, please get in touch with our Safeguarding Team by contacting safeguarding@britishesports.org

Esports organisations should promote safeguarding through the implementation of strict codes of conduct, background checks for staff and volunteers, education and awareness programs, reporting mechanisms, and collaboration with relevant authorities and organisations specialising in child protection.

The British Esports Federation has a number of strict safeguarding protocols in place including enhanced DBS checks for all staff and regular safeguarding training and appraisal.

Should any safeguarding concerns or incidents be reported to the British Esports Federation, we will work through our safeguarding procedures created in partnership with the NSPCC to ensure the immediate safety of those involved.

For any immediate safeguarding concerns, we strongly recommend you get in contact with your local emergency services or local authority safeguarding teams.  Alternatively, you can contact the NSPCC, Childline, or CEOP.

The British Esports Federation hosts a number of competitions and tournaments involving young learners aged 12+ in schools and colleges throughout the United Kingdom.  We spearhead the development of national esports teams, cutting edge esports curriculum and equality and diversity initiatives aimed at creating a more inclusive industry.

As such, we recognise tthe potential risks involved with participation in esports.  We prioritise the safeguarding and welfare of our staff, community members, tournament participants, students, and everyone else connected to our ecosystem, recognising and addressing all and any potential risks.

The purpose of our safeguarding policy is to:

  • ensure that the safety and well being of children and young people is paramount when they are playing or watching esports whether online or at live events.
  • provide staff and volunteers, and wider stakeholders and partners, with the overarching principles that guide our approach to safeguarding both online and offline.
  • ensure that, as an organisation, we design, promote and operate our activities in line with our values and within the law.
  • raise awareness more broadly in the sector and with our consumers about safeguarding children and young people participating in esports both online and offline.

British Esports upholds stringent standards to safeguard individuals participating in its activities, aligning with Information Commissioner’s Office standards and ensuring a secure and inclusive environment for all involved.

Parents, carers and guardians can support the safeguarding of young esports participants by actively engaging with and understanding what they are doing online, setting appropriate boundaries, monitoring their interactions, and educating them about online safety, privacy, and responsible behaviour.

Should any safeguarding concerns or incidents be reported to the British Esports Federation, we will work through our safeguarding procedures created in partnership with the NSPCC to ensure the immediate safety of those involved.

For any immediate safeguarding concerns, we strongly recommend you get in contact with your local emergency services or local authority safeguarding teams.  Alternatively, you can contact the NSPCC, Childline, or CEOP.

Diversity and Inclusion FAQ

Questions we receive most often regarding Diversity and Inclusion.

Equality, diversity, and inclusivity, often referred to as EDI, are principles that strive for fairness, respect and representation across all facets of society.

Equality involves ensuring that everyone has the same opportunities and rights, irrespective of their differences or backgrounds. It aims to eliminate discrimination and create a level playing field for all individuals, advocating for fairness in treatment, access to resources and opportunities.

Diversity encompasses the richness of human differences, including but not limited to aspects such as race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, abilities, religion, and socio-economic status. It celebrates and acknowledges the variety of perspectives, experiences and identities that make each person unique.

Inclusivity revolves around creating environments where diversity is not only recognised but also embraced and valued. It involves fostering an atmosphere of respect, belonging, and participation, where everyone feels welcomed, heard and empowered. Inclusivity aims to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their backgrounds, have equal access to opportunities and are able to contribute their full potential to society without fear of discrimination or exclusion.

Equality, diversity and inclusivity are crucial to foster a welcoming and supportive environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds feel valued, respected and included. 

Inclusivity helps to attract and retain talent, cultivating a more vibrant and innovative esports community.

Embracing diversity fosters creativity, as different viewpoints can lead to fresh ideas and innovative approaches, ultimately benefiting the growth and evolution of our industry as a whole.

Inclusivity in esports also helps in breaking down barriers to participation, ensuring that individuals from various backgrounds have equal opportunities to engage and excel in the field. This not only promotes fairness but also encourages a more robust talent pool, contributing to the overall success and sustainability of esports.

Overall, encouraging greater equality, diversity, and inclusivity in esports not only creates a more welcoming and fair environment but also drives innovation, expands opportunities, and contributes to the industry’s growth and success.

Explore British Esports EDI initiatives

The British Esports Federation actively promotes equality, diversity, and inclusivity in esports through several award winning initiatives. 

By advocating for and supporting representation across all levels of the esports ecosystem, we encourage and facilitate diverse participation, from amateur esports enthusiasts to professionals esports athletes and leading industry stakeholders.

From our award winning Women in Esports initiative to the British Esports Student Champs, we develop projects, pilots and initiatives that celebrate individuals from diverse backgrounds and showcase inclusivity.

Discover more About British Esports.

Performance Campus FAQ

Questions we we’re asked most often about the National Esports Performance Campus.

The National Esports Performance Campus is a multi site entertainment and education complex nestled in the vibrant city of Sunderland. It is also home to the British Esports Federation, the UK’s national esports body.

The National Esports Performance Campus encompasses 45,000 sq.ft, spread over several locations and is designed to nurture the esports ecosystem throughout the United Kingdom, featuring;

The Arena, a versatile esports and entertainment venue boasting; superfast 5G connectivity, a dedicated esports stage, retail space, broadcast studio with editing facilities, large indoor and outdoor event areas, bar, lounge and dining.  Dedicated seating for 200 spectators. (Opening Q1 2024)

The Place, a cutting edge, dynamic hub for students, entrepreneurs, innovators, and esports enthusiasts, featuring contemporary offices, modern classrooms alongside esports performance and bootcamp rooms.

The Gaming Houses, fully managed, luxury on site accommodation, including three Grade II listed townhouses, fully refurbished and recently modernised, accommodating up to 27 guests.

Each house offers brand new kitchens, open plan living spaces and contemporary dining, 65” Ultra HD Widescreen TVs, a PlayStation 5, coupled with secure key card access control, all accessed by a private internal courtyard with 24 hour security.

Boasting a dedicated, fully air conditioned Esports Performance Room in each house, with seven gaming stations per room, including Alienware Aurora R15 gaming desktops, powered by NVIDIA® GeForce RTX® 4080 and Intel® Core™ i7 processors.

If you are interested in booking the facilities at the National Esports Performance Campus, please call +44 (0)191 500 7077 or get in touch with our Sales and Events Team who will be happy to discuss your requirements in greater detail.

The facilities at the National Esports Performance Campus cater to a wide spectrum of interests, from esports enthusiasts to educational institutions or friends looking for a simple getaway.

Whether you’re looking to host an educational event, organise a gaming night, or explore the immersive world of esports, our doors are open to all. 

If you’d like to book the facilities at the National Esports Performance Campus, please get in touch with our Sales and Events Team or call +44 (0)191 500 7077, and they will be happy to discuss your requirements in greater detail.

At this time, our facilities are not available to book directly online (coming Q1 2024). We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding as we work towards ensuring we can deliver a seamless experience for our valued guests.

To book any of the facilities or for more information please get in touch with our Sales and Events Team or call +44 (0)191 500 7077, and they will be happy to discuss the current booking rates and your requirements in greater detail.

The use of the National Esports Performance Campus is currently only reserved for the British Esports Federation, as well as several exclusive partners and suppliers, namely Sunderland College, Pearson and Dell Technologies.

Earlier opening hours and later closing hours can be arranged depending on your requirements. With 24/7 security on site and CCTV in constant operation, the National Esports Performance Campus is typically open from 7am GMT to 7pm GMT.  

If you are interested in booking the facilities at the National Esports Performance Campus, would like to discuss alternative operating hours as part of your package, please get in touch with our Sales and Events Team who will be happy to discuss your requirements in greater detail.

Our contemporary offices and classrooms at The Place are wheelchair accessible, with lifts available on all floors for ease of access.

Due to the architecture of the 1840 Grade II gaming houses, our on site accommodation is not accessible to wheelchair users, however we have corporate rates with two local hotels (close by) which are fully accessible.

Should you have accessibility concerns, we encourage you to get in touch with our Sales and Events Team or call +44 (0)191 500 7077, and they will be happy to discuss your requirements in greater detail.

If you’d like to book the facilities at the National Esports Performance Campus, please get in touch with our Sales and Events Team or call +44 (0)191 500 7077, and they will be happy to discuss the current booking rates and your requirements in greater detail.

After an extensive refurbishment, the three Gaming Houses offer in total 17 bedrooms, and accommodation for up to 27 guests, with a mix of single, double and twin bed options. 

  • Sapphire House can sleep up to 12 people in eight bedrooms.
  • Emerald House can sleep up to 8 people in five bedrooms.
  • Ruby House can sleep up to 7 people in four bedrooms.

Each house offers brand new kitchens, open plan living spaces and contemporary dining, 65” Ultra HD Widescreen TVs, a PlayStation 5, coupled with secure key card access control, all accessed by a private internal courtyard with 24 hour security.

Boasting a dedicated, fully air conditioned Esports Performance Room in each house, with seven gaming stations per room, including Alienware Aurora R15 gaming desktops, powered by NVIDIA® GeForce RTX® 4080 and Intel® Core™ i7 processors.

If you are interested in booking our luxurious on site accommodation for a simple getaway, or as part of a wider package, please get in touch with our Sales and Events Team or call +44 (0)191 500 7077, and they will be happy to discuss your requirements in greater detail.

Traveling to the National Esports Performance Campus from London by train is a straightforward journey.

Travelling by Train

Travelling to Sunderland from London by train is a straightforward journey. Starting at London King’s Cross Station, select a direct train for Sunderland on Northern Rail. The journey from London to Sunderland typically takes around 3.5 hours and departs regularly.

Upon arriving at Sunderland Railway Station, The Place and The Gaming Houses are less than a five minute walk. The address is The Place, Athenaeum Street, Sunderland, SR1 1QX (entrance is on the corner of Foyle Street).

In addition there are regular trains from most of the country to Newcastle and the Nexus Tyne and Wear Metro provides a service between Newcastle upon Tyne to Sunderland every twenty minutes.

Another option by train is Durham – which is about a 30 minute drive to Sunderland.

Travelling by Plane

The nearest airport is Newcastle International Airport.

We encourage all visitors to consider using public transport when visiting our campus.

We do not have any parking facilities available at The Place or the Gaming Houses.

We encourage all visitors to consider using public transport when visiting our campus. 

If visiting by car, please consider using one of several local car parks, including;

  • Nile Street Car Park
  • Tatham Street Car Park
  • High Street West Car Park
  • Foyle Street

Please note, parking may be more difficult on match days when Sunderland AFC are playing at home at the Stadium of Light.

We operate strict safeguarding procedures and protocols at the National Esports Performance Campus.

All our staff on site go through stringent and enhanced DBS checks on a regular basis, as well as receiving regular safeguarding training in child protection and welfare.

Should you have a safeguarding query or concern, please get in touch with our Safeguarding Team who can discuss your questions in greater detail.

At the National Esports Performance Campus we’re able to offer luxurious residential on site accommodation for up to 27 guests.

Featuring three Grade II listed townhouses, composing 10,000 sq.ft, our on site accommodation features a range of single, double and twin bed options throughout 17 separate bedrooms.

We’re currently offering bookings for the entire house only, as individual rooms are not available for reservation at the moment.

  • Sapphire House can sleep up to 12 people in eight bedrooms.
  • Emerald House can sleep up to 8 people in five bedrooms.
  • Ruby House can sleep up to 7 people in four bedrooms.

Each house offers brand new kitchens, open plan living spaces and contemporary dining, 65” Ultra HD Widescreen TVs, a PlayStation 5, coupled with secure key card access control, all accessed by a private internal courtyard with 24 hour security.

Boasting a dedicated, fully air conditioned Esports Performance Room in each house, with seven gaming stations per room, including Alienware Aurora R15 gaming desktops, powered by NVIDIA® GeForce RTX® 4080 and Intel® Core™ i7 processors.

If you are interested in booking our luxurious on site accommodation for a simple getaway, or as part of a wider package, please get in touch with our Sales and Events Team or call +44 (0)191 500 7077, and they will be happy to discuss your requirements in greater detail.

All rooms in our on site accommodation are accessed via secure entry key cards. 

The Esports Performance Rooms are bookable only as part of a package when booking the accommodation.  

If you are interested in booking our luxurious on site accommodation and would like access to the Esports Performance Rooms as part of a wider package, please get in touch with our Sales and Events Team or call +44 (0)191 500 7077, and they will be happy to discuss your requirements in greater detail.

It is possible to book all three houses on an exclusive basis.

  • Ruby House can sleep up to 7 people in four bedrooms.
  • Emerald House can sleep up to 8 people in five bedrooms.
  • Sapphire House can sleep up to 12 people in eight bedrooms.

Each house offers brand new kitchens, open plan living spaces and contemporary dining, 65” Ultra HD Widescreen TVs, a PlayStation 5, coupled with secure key card access control, all accessed by a private internal courtyard with 24 hour security.

Boasting a dedicated, fully air conditioned Esports Performance Room in each house, with seven gaming stations per room, including Alienware Aurora R15 gaming desktops, powered by NVIDIA® GeForce RTX® 4080 and Intel® Core™ i7 processors.

If you are interested in booking our luxurious on site accommodation for a simple getaway, or as part of a wider package, please get in touch with our Sales and Events Team or call +44 (0)191 500 7077, and they will be happy to discuss your requirements in greater detail.

If you would like to enquire about booking our facilities as a function venue unrelated to esports, please get in touch with our Sales and Events Team or call +44 (0)191 500 7077, and they will be happy to discuss your requirements in greater detail.

We are able to provide catering for larger events and functions.  If you are interested in booking our facilities and require catering to be provided, please get in touch with our Sales and Events Team or call +44 (0)191 500 7077, and they will be happy to discuss your requirements in greater detail.

Please make sure you include any dietary or allergy requirements we should be aware of concerning your party.

If you are interested in booking classrooms, accommodation, performance rooms or a function venue at the National Esports Performance Campus, please get in touch with our Sales and Events Team or call +44 (0)191 500 7077, and they will be happy to discuss your requirements in greater detail.

The National Esports Performance Campus, a groundbreaking esports, education and performance complex located in Sunderland, features three 1840 Grade II listed, four story townhouses, fully refurbished and recently modernised into luxury residential accommodation, with sleeping available for up to 27 guests.

Available to book as single houses, or as a group package including all three houses, Ruby House, Sapphire House and Emerald House feature a total of 17 bedrooms with a mix of single, double and twin bed options available.

Coupled with dedicated air conditioned esports performance rooms featuring the very latest Alienware Aurora R15 Gaming Stations, open plan kitchen and dining facilities, and access to the players lounge at The Place featuring F1 racing sim rigs, the luxurious on site accommodation at the National Esports Performance Campus is the ideal location for an esports bootcamp, or weekend getaway with friends.

If you are interested in booking our luxurious on site accommodation for a simple getaway, or as part of a wider package, please call +44 (0)191 500 7077 or get in touch with our Sales and Events Team or who will be happy to discuss your requirements in greater detail.

The Place at the National Esports Performance Campus is a cutting edge, dynamic hub for students, gamers, entrepreneurs, innovators, and esports enthusiasts, featuring contemporary offices, modern classrooms alongside esports performance and training rooms.

Coupled with luxurious Grade II listed on site residential accommodation for up to 27 guests, The Place is the ideal destination for esports education residentials, team away days, or esports bootcamps.   

We offer a range of facilities at The Place, part of the National Esports Performance Campus.  These include;

  • PC and Non PC Classrooms
  • Esports Performance Rooms
  • Function Rooms
  • Boardroom
  • Luxury Accommodation
  • External Courtyard
  • Player Lounge (featuring F1 Sim Rigs)

If you are interested in booking classrooms, accommodation, performance rooms or a function venue at the National Esports Performance Campus, please get in touch with our Sales and Events Team or call +44 (0)191 500 7077, and they will be happy to discuss your requirements in greater detail.

The luxurious on site residential accommodation at the National Esports Performance Campus is currently only bookable by appointment.

Check In Time is 2pm.

Check Out Time is 12 noon.

Alternative provisions can be accommodated depending on your circumstances and other events taking place at our venue.

If you are interested in booking our luxurious on site accommodation and require alternative check in and check out times, please get in touch with our Sales and Events Team or call +44 (0)191 500 7077, and they will be happy to discuss your requirements in greater detail.

The Place at the National Esports Performance Campus is a cutting edge, dynamic hub for entrepreneurs, innovators, and esports enthusiasts, featuring contemporary offices, modern classrooms alongside esports performance and training rooms.

Coupled with luxurious Grade II listed on site residential accommodation for up to 27 guests, The Place is the ideal destination for esports education residentials, team away days, or esports bootcamps.   

If you are interested in booking the facilities at the National Esports Performance Campus, including our luxurious on site accommodation, please get in touch with our Sales and Events Team or call +44 (0)191 500 7077, and they will be happy to discuss your requirements in greater detail.

Our luxurious on site residential accommodation is located at:

The Place, Athenaeum Street, Sunderland, SR1 1QX.  

Our houses feature accommodation for up to 27 guests and are connected to The Place by a private, enclosed courtyard.  

If you are interested in booking our luxurious on site accommodation for a simple getaway, or as part of a wider package, please get in touch with our Sales and Events Team or call +44 (0)191 500 7077, and they will be happy to discuss your requirements in greater detail.

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