Pioneering Esports Education at Sophia High School

With a passion for education and leadership, Tyler Wilson is driving the future of esports by blending competitive gaming with innovative learning opportunities at Sophia High School.

Tyler Wilson has taken his passion for esports from amateur coaching during lockdown to leading one of the most exciting esports initiatives in the education sector. As the Esports Lead at Sophia High School, Tyler is spearheading the launch of the Gaming Innovators Academy in partnership with True Gamers in Dubai, while continuing to support competitive esports teams across the UK. In this spotlight, Tyler shares his journey from university esports leader to education-focused esports champion, along with his vision for the future of gaming in schools.

Q: How did you get started in esports?

My journey into esports started during lockdown when I began coaching amateur players. This experience opened doors, and I soon became the Esports Manager for the York St John University Gaming and Esports Society. The next year, I stepped into the role of Chair of the society. From there, I transitioned into teaching esports full-time and eventually became Course Leader. It’s been a thrilling progression from informal coaching to leading an esports education program at Sophia High School.

Q: What work have you or your company done within the esports industry?

I’ve been actively involved in helping schools compete in the British Esports Student Champs, which has been an incredible platform for young talent. We’ve also taken our Rocket League teams to live competitions, including the LAN event at BETT 2024, where our team took home first place. At Sophia High School, we’re now launching the Gaming Innovators Academy in partnership with True Gamers in Dubai, aiming to inspire the next generation of esports professionals.

Q: What is your biggest goal for the year ahead?

The main goal for this year is to ensure the successful launch of the Gaming Innovators Academy. Beyond that, I want to increase marketing efforts among schools to promote esports competitions like the Student Champs. It’s essential for students and parents alike to see esports as a legitimate and valuable pursuit—comparable to traditional sports in its potential for personal growth and career opportunities.

Q: Which aspect of the esports industry are you passionate about?

Education is where my heart lies. I love seeing how esports can be integrated into a learning environment, giving students opportunities they wouldn’t have otherwise. That said, I’m also deeply passionate about management and leadership within the esports industry. Guiding teams and helping develop sustainable strategies is something I take great pride in.

Q: From your perspective, what would you like to see the esports industry do better?

Stability is a major issue right now. The recent layoffs across the industry show that companies are expanding too quickly without a sustainable plan. Leadership teams need to focus on building stability and hiring only what’s truly needed to foster growth in a more sustainable way. Over-expansion can hurt the industry long-term, so it’s crucial to get this right.

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