Dear Colleagues,

I’m a lecturer delivering Games Development in one of Scotland’s colleges, and I’m writing to ask for something far more valuable than funding or free software.

I’m asking for your expertise.

Over the past three and a half years, I’ve worked alongside colleagues across Scotland to secure a full redevelopment of the HNC/HND Games Development qualifications. That redevelopment has now been approved by Qualifications Scotland — and I have the privilege of leading the new qualification design.

This is a rare opportunity.

For the first time in years, we have the chance to reshape what games education looks like at college level in Scotland. But there is one essential voice missing from the conversation: yours.

Our students don’t just complete qualifications — they become your junior programmers, designers, artists, QA testers, producers, and future studio leads. If the qualification isn’t aligned with what studios actually need, we risk producing graduates who are enthusiastic but underprepared.

That helps no one.

We need your input on:

• The technical skills you expect from entry-level hires

• The software, engines, and workflows that matter most

• The professional behaviours and team skills you value

• The gaps you currently see in graduate capability

• What should be prioritised — and what should be removed

We can’t promise to include every specific request, but we can ensure the qualification reflects real industry expectations. With your guidance, we can create graduates who contribute faster, adapt better, and understand studio realities from day one.

The Scottish Games Education Symposium will take place on 3rd March, 10:00–15:30, at West College Scotland, Paisley Campus.
This event is your opportunity to directly influence the future of games education in Scotland.

If you can attend, please register here:
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/scottishgameseducationnetwork/2030978

If you can’t attend but still want to contribute, I would genuinely welcome your thoughts. Please email hello@scottishgameseducation.network by Friday 6th March.

This redevelopment will shape the next generation of Scottish games talent for years to come. Your industry is growing, evolving, and competing globally. Let’s ensure Scotland’s education system evolves with it.

If we don’t build this together, we risk building it without you.

I hope you’ll take this opportunity to help shape the talent of tomorrow.

With thanks