Nintendo UK-backed school initiative to improve pupils' confidence comes to Milton Keynes

Earlier this week, Milton Keynes became the latest city to take part in Digital Schoolhouse, an initiative backed by Nintendo which encourages school children to learn about computing via play-based education.

A study of students found there has been a marked improvement on teamwork skills, attitudes and even attendance. Young girls have also been more likely to get involved with a 46.3 per cent rise in female participation year-on-year.

As part of the programme, pupils also took part in an e-sports tournament with the hope of reaching the grand final in London on April 8.

A study produced by Digital Schoolhouse, a government initiative, has found that more than 80 per cent of students taking part in esports tournaments in the programme are more likely to participate in other team sports.

Nintendo UK is supporting Digital Schoolhouse’s national schools esports tournament, an immersive career experience for students that allows them to develop practical and soft skills with participation in professional roles such as event management and hosting.

The study found that participation in esports creates positive behavioural change and helps develop transferable skills in young players - 74 per cent of students surveyed said it helped improve communication skills.

Luke McWilliams, event & community manager at Nintendo UK, said: “Esports and gaming has historically conjured negative stereotypes amongst those distant from them. This research and programme show the often overlooked or unknown benefits that esports and competitive gaming offer students.”