Sumo Digital opens applications for latest gaming apprenticeship programme

Graduates aspiring to break into the games industry are being encouraged to showcase their programming and development potential, as the Sheffield based Sumo Digital Academy announces applications for its 2023 apprenticeship programme are open.

The programme is the first in the UK to offer a games industry programming course recognised by the UK government and the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education, and presents an opportunity for graduates looking to make their first career move, those skilled in different industries, or those seeking a career change.

Founded in 2020 to create alternative pathways into the games industry, the programme follows the newly approved Level 7 Game Programmer Apprenticeship Specification co-developed by Sumo Digital.

Dr Jacob Habgood, director of education partnerships at Sumo Digital, commented: “Over the last two years, the Sumo Digital Academy has been helping interns and apprentices prepare for a career in the games industry through practical, technical training and development.

“We’re excited to open our programme to new applicants again and discover more of the amazing, untapped talent.”

The Sumo Digital Academy focuses on game programming and software development and has so far seen all of its graduates move into full-time employment with Sumo Digital as a result of being enrolled on the programme.

The Academy also offers outreach activities to schools and colleges including on-site workshops, presentations, digital programmes and collaboration with teaching staff.

Dr Habgood added: “I’ve been involved in nurturing graduate talent for decades, and it’s been so rewarding to see those students go on to senior roles at Sumo. The apprenticeship now provides a different pathway for graduates outside of games degrees to step sideways into our industry and help build a new generation of talent.

“Sumo Digital’s role trailblazing the first recognised games industry programming apprenticeship demonstrates our commitment to providing effective training to promote growth in our award-winning, dynamic studios.”

In addition to the Games Programming Apprenticeship, the Sumo Digital Academy also offers a Diversity Internship Training Programme, giving people from under-represented groups the opportunities to receive training and mentoring in games programming, in order to gain insight into what it would be like as a career.

By Matthew Neville – Correspondent, Bdaily

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