Manchester City launches promotion for esports academy programme

English football club Manchester City has launched a promotional video showcasing its esports academy programme.

In collaboration with City in the Community (CITC), the short film provides insight into the programme, which offers an esports BTEC qualification.

The short video published on Manchester City’s website shows students and teachers engaging in lessons that form part of the BTEC qualification. Students can earn a Level 2 Certificate in Esports after a year of study, and a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Esports by completing two years.

Units of the esports BTEC include health and wellbeing for esports players, esports broadcasting, and titles used in esports tournaments.

“The Manchester City Esports Academy programme is an exciting addition to our City BTEC pathway, providing learners with a dynamic and engaging educational experience,” said Jonathan Pauley, 11+ Education Manager at City in the Community.

“The course not only equips students with the technical skills and industry knowledge needed for a career in esports but also supports their personal development.”

The addition of an esports qualification to the City BTEC programme follows CITC’s collaboration with Oldham College, established in July 2024. The charity of Manchester City aims to support people across Greater Manchester by focusing on physical and mental health.

Man City is no stranger to the world of esports. In June 2024, the club opened a gaming facility inside the Etihad Stadium for its EA Sports FC and Fortnite players to practice.

Elsewhere, the club has collaborated with the likes of PUMA and global esports organisation Gen.G. In August 2024, the club and the organisation joined forces for a range of activations ahead of the 2024 League of Legends World Championship, which took place in London.

While 2024 featured several esports initiatives from the club, it has yet to engage in any esports-focused activations or partnerships in the first five months of 2025.