British Esports, a national body set up to support grassroots esports in the UK, has appointed Kalam Neale, formerly of Barnsley College, as its Head of Education.
In his new role, Neale will focus on delivering growth and development of esports education throughout the UK and beyond.
Prior to joining the British Esports, Neale served as Esports Programme Lead at Barnsley College, where he co-wrote the Esports BTEC in association with education service Pearson and British Esports. He also held a similar role at the North America Scholastic Esports Federation (NASEF) where he remained for almost a year.
Along with his work at British Esports, he will continue balancing his roles as Director of Education at Strategic Esports Group (SEG), as well as being a Trainer and Podcast Host at Pearson.
Neale replaces Tom Dore as Head of Education for British Esports. According to a release, both he and Gary Tibbett will continue in an advisory capacity for British Esports. Dore is currently the Head of the Education Group for the Global Esports Federation and is supporting the launch of the Global Esports Academy, alongside Tibbett.
The news of Neale’s appointment follows British Esports’ plans to open a National Esports Performance Campus (NEPC) in Sunderland. The facility is set to host regular esports events, community tournaments, and summer camps.
The newly appointed Head of Education commented: “I’m delighted to be joining British Esports as Head of Education. I’m extremely grateful for the vision and innovation that Barnsley College has shown over the last three years in supporting the development of internationally recognised esports programmes and facilities during my time as Curriculum Leader.
“Having led an Ofsted deep dive into esports, in a brand-new curriculum area, under a new framework and being judged as an Outstanding provider alongside my work for Pearson and Strategic Esports Group, I look forward to making a significant impact in the continued growth and development of esports education at British Esports in the UK and beyond.”
