Kippie CIC, in partnership with Northern Ireland Screen, is launching a free after-school STEM programme in January, aimed at encouraging girls aged 11-14 to explore careers in the video game industry.
Running in Belfast, Derry and Enniskillen, the initiative seeks to bridge the gender gap in this fast-growing industry.
Despite women making up 50 per cent of the global gaming audience, only 28 per cent of UK video game industry professionals identify as female, and only a mere 11 per cent of IT and Tech graduates in Northern Ireland are women. CTRL ALT CREATE aims to change that by equipping young women with the confidence and skills to thrive in gaming and STEM-related fields.
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Northern Ireland’s video game industry is booming, with over 25 studios – including Billy Goat Entertainment, Amber Tail Games, Bellular Studios, Italic Pig and Hypixel Studios – contributing to the region’s growing reputation as a creative hub. However, a lack of gender diversity remains a pressing issue worldwide.
David McConnell, Education and Careers Manager at Northern Ireland Screen, said: “Games skills are future skills, as skills covered in the course include programming, design, team working and presentation, all of which are transferable. We will continue to work with Kippie to improve access to games education for those from underrepresented groups."
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During the course, participants will:
Learn how to use a 2D game engine - Gamemaker
Learn how to use illustration software - Procreate
Receive talks from industry experts
Tour local game development studios (where possible)
Build confidence and transferable skills
Pictured: Kippie tutor Caroline with student Eirinn learning to make games on Procreate
Previous courses delivered in Derry, funded by the Department of Communities, have been highly successful. Feedback from parents highlights the impact the programme has previously had:
“My daughter’s confidence has increased, and she has started getting involved in other activities as a result”.
“Our daughter has really loved it and it’s been the highlight of her week – she’s so proud of what she has achieved”.
Apply Now
The programme is free, however, spaces are limited. Applications are now open and parents or guardians can apply on behalf of a child at www.kippie.org.uk.
Read Sync NI's free online Big Data Belfast autumn magazine here.
