Welcome to the Sumo Digital Academy, a talent development programme creating new pathways into the games industry.
We want to open the door to graduates looking to make their first career move, those skilled in different industries and those seeking a career change.
Led by former game programming lecturer, Dr Jake Habgood, the Academy focusses on game programming and software development.
The Sumo Digital Academy is the first in the UK games industry to be recognised by the government and the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.
Who Are We?
The Academy is part of Sumo Digital, an independent family of game development studios founded in 2003 which has developed games for every major platform for some of the world's biggest publishers.
Using our unrivalled experience, we aim to create new career pathways and encourage greater diversity and inclusivity in an industry that we’ve helped to shape - building a new generation of talent to make the games of the future.
What Do We Offer?
The Sumo Digital Academy 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.
We welcome graduates from areas outside of games keen to adapt their skill set and move into the games industry, those looking for a career change and able to transition their abilities on the job and skilled developers from other industries looking to transition into games.
We also offer a Diversity Internship Training Programme, which gives people from under-represented groups the opportunities to receive training and mentoring in games programming to gain insight on what it would be like as a career.
“The Sumo Digital Academy has provided me with a unique opportunity to pursue my passion and take my first steps into the games industry. Not only have I developed valuable programming skills, but I’ve had the opportunity to make connections with other teams and studios that will enhance my future career!”
Schools Outreach
Many students and their parents don't realise that the games industry offers varied and viable career paths. To that end, we engage with schools and colleges with outreach activities to help nurture the next generation of talent. This can involve on-site workshops, presentations, digital programmes and collaboration with teaching staff.
Check out some of the resources below, aimed at 11-14-year-olds (KS3). They include a video introduction and a set of resources and worksheets to help students create a game.
Create Spy-Dare with Agent 8 and further develop your Game Maker Studio 2 skills.
Create your first game in Game Maker Studio 2 using Sumo’s favourite tiny superspy, Agent 8.
Using more Agent 8 assets learn how to create your very own Sky-High Spy game.
