Game on!

19th August 2005. The Midlands may be known as the home of Cadbury and Wedgwood, but it is also at the heart of the computer gaming industry within the UK. For years, it has played host to some of the leading names in the industry including Blitz Games, one of the UK's leading developers and creator of games as diverse as Bratz, the doll phenomenon, PacMan and forthcoming blockbuster Possession for next generation consoles PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.

While other sectors in the area such as automotive see a downturn in jobs, the computer games industry in the region continues to expand, bringing with it an increasing demand for skilled people to develop complex gaming software. That is why, from September, Sutton Coldfield College will be one of the few colleges in the country to offer the new BTEC National Diploma in Computer Games Development (Advanced). As a prime example of the thriving games business, Blitz Games currently employs 130 staff and is actively looking to expand by 25% across all disciplines including design, art and programming.

On this full-time course, based at the Sixth Form Centre at the Great Barr campus, students will develop a range of specialist knowledge and skills including games development, system analysis and design, communications technology and software development. Students will then have the skills to either carry on to higher education or seek employment in this dynamic industry.

Philip Oliver, CEO and co-founder of Blitz Games enthused, "We're really pleased to work with a local college to bring on the next generation of game creators. Many still look on games as a small industry or 'not a real job' when it is a growth entertainment business that has already overtaken Cinema box office worldwide. It is the new entertainment medium and we're proud to be at the forefront of the market creating exciting, creative jobs for many people in the midlands."

For further information please contact: Alison Beasley, Lincoln Beasley PR

T: 01608 645756 M: 07966 449130 E: Alison@lincolnbeasley.co.uk

This qualification is just one of the courses potential students can enrol for at Sutton Coldfield College from 23 August. Or they can contact 0845 155 0101 or visit www.sutcol.ac.uk

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Notes to Editors:

Entry requirements for the BTEC National Diploma in Computer Games Development (ADVANCED) NEW are 4 GCSEs at Grade C or above (preferably in mathematics, English Language or a science), or an appropriate Intermediate level course at pass standard, an interview and strong desire to work independently and in teams. Good references will also be required.

Students will learn by completing projects and assignments, based on realistic workplace situations and will develop a range of specialist skills and knowledge. Content of the course includes:

Language and Communication

• Computer Systems

• Business Information Systems

• Introduction to Software Development

• Communications Technology

• Systems Analysis and Design

• Games Development

About Blitz Games

Award-winning leading UK independent developer, Blitz Games is based in Leamington Spa and was founded in 1990 by twin brothers Andrew and Philip Oliver and now boasts over 130 staff. The Oliver's are responsible for developing over 100 games and with three major new titles planned for release in the next year, including Pac-Man World 3 and Bratz: Rock Angelz. Also currently in development is next generation original title Possession. Blitz work with leading publishers THQ, Namco, SCi and Konami amongst others. The company continues its huge long-term investment into BlitzWare, its in-house technology, which provides one of the best game development environments of any independent developer.

www.BlitzGames.com.