This is a digital event that will see industry veterans talking to UK students about their experience in different roles.

The Xbox Academy Will Inspire Future Developers

As announced on Microsoft News Centre UK, Microsoft will host a digital Xbox Academy that aims to “inspire the next generation of games creators in the UK”.

Xbox Academy will take place during Microsoft’s “Work Experience Week”, which runs from May 10 and aims to give children an insight into Microsoft and what an early career at the company looks like.

Microsoft’s Work Experience Week will be hosted entirely online, with students hearing from senior executives, including Microsoft’s UK CEO Clare Barclay and Director of Education Chris Rothwell.

The event is tailored for UK pupils that are in years nine and ten of secondary school (this encompasses children aged 13 to 15).

Microsoft is partnering with Rare, Microsoft Education, and East London Arts and Music (ELAM).

What Sessions Can Be Expected From Xbox Academy?

The first Xbox Academy event will be hosted by Rare, developers behind Banjo-Kazooie and the more recent success Sea of Thieves. Four employees from production, design, engineering, and quality assurance will discuss their roles and careers.

ELAM representatives will then give an academic context to joining the games development industry.

This will be concluded by a session hosted by Into Games, a non-profit that supports those seeking a games industry job. This will give students practical advice and insights into getting their dream job.

Craig Duncan, Studio Head of Rare, said:

Curtis Le Blanc, Director of Games at ELAM, expressed similar enthusiasm, noting that the partnership between the firms began last year and its one that he is proud to see continuing.

If you want to sign up for the Xbox Academy, or any of the other workshops and training sessions on offer, then visit the Microsoft Work Experience Week sign up form.

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