JLC Visits Sheffield Hallam GameOver26

JLC Students Explore Game Development at Sheffield Hallam University

At John Leggott College, we believe that learning extends well beyond the classroom. That is why we were delighted to accept an invitation to Sheffield Hallam University's GameOver26 festival, part of the wider Festival of Computing, where our students got a genuine taste of what a future in game development could look like.

The trip gave students the opportunity to meet tutors and current university students, watch showcases of new game releases, and engage with concepts they are already beginning to explore through their studies at JLC.

What is GameOver26?

GameOver26 is Sheffield Hallam University's game development showcase, held as part of the Festival of Computing. It brings together students, academics and industry professionals to celebrate creativity, technology and innovation in gaming.

For our students, it was a chance to see what studying game development at degree level actually involves, directly from the people living it every day.

What Our Students Got Up To

During the visit, John Leggott College students took part in a packed programme of activities designed to broaden their understanding of the games industry and the skills needed to work within it.

They explored how games are created from concept to completion, learning about the design decisions, technical processes and creative thinking that go into building a finished product. They also had the opportunity to navigate various programming engines, gaining practical insight into the tools that developers use every day.

One of the highlights was the masterclass sessions, where students could ask questions directly to university tutors and current games development students. These conversations covered programming concepts, visual effects and what university life on a games course actually looks like from the inside.

Seeing work created by university students made the whole idea of a career in game development feel genuinely within reach.

How This Links to Courses at JLC

For students currently studying at John Leggott College, visits like this sit alongside a range of courses that build the foundations for a career in computing, technology and the digital industries. JLC offers three distinct pathways depending on your interests, strengths and where you want to go after sixth form.

A Level Computer Science

JLC's A Level Computer Science is the most academically rigorous of the three pathways and is particularly well suited to students with strong mathematical and problem-solving skills. The course covers contemporary processors, software development, data structures, algorithms and computational thinking, and is assessed through coursework and exams. It provides an excellent foundation for students aiming for university degrees in Computer Science, Software Development, Cyber Security or Engineering. Entry requires GCSE English at grade 5 and Maths at grade 6, with an average points score of 6 or above. JLC recommends combining it with A Level Maths, Physics, Chemistry or Electronics for the strongest university progression route.

Applied Computing (BTEC)

JLC's Applied Computing course is a vocational qualification that takes a more practical approach to computing. It covers game development, application development, UX/UI design and web development, and students develop hands-on programming skills using tools such as Unity. It is a strong choice for students who want to explore the creative and technical side of computing through project-based learning rather than traditional exams alone. The course is assessed by a mix of coursework and exams, and entry requires five GCSEs at grade 4 including English and Maths.

Digital Production, Design and Development (T Level)

For students who want to combine classroom learning with real industry experience from day one, JLC also offers the Digital Production, Design and Development T Level. This two-year programme is equivalent to three A Levels and includes 315 hours of industry placement, giving students direct experience working with local businesses. The course covers software design, emerging technologies including AI and the Internet of Things, digital project management and the ethical and legal dimensions of working in technology. It carries UCAS points and provides a clear route into computing degrees, apprenticeships or digital employment. Entry requires GCSE Maths at grade 5 and English at grade 4, along with three other GCSEs at grade 4 or above.

All three courses connect directly to the kind of work showcased at GameOver26 and offer clear, supported pathways into the games and digital industries.

Life After JLC: Where Could This Take You?

The games and digital industries are among the fastest growing sectors in the UK, with opportunities across programming, design, visual effects, project management and more.

Students who complete A Level Computer Science at JLC are well placed to apply for competitive university courses in Computer Science, Software Engineering and Cyber Security. Those studying Applied Computing can progress into games development, web development and computing-related degrees. Students completing the Digital Production T Level have a direct route into junior developer and software application roles, or into higher education in digital and technology fields at universities across the country, including Sheffield Hallam.

Events like GameOver26 help students understand exactly what those next steps look like, making university applications and career decisions feel far less daunting when the time comes.

Why Enrichment Matters at JLC

At John Leggott College, we are committed to giving students experiences that go beyond the syllabus. Whether it is a university visit, an industry masterclass or a festival like GameOver26, these opportunities help students connect what they are learning at sixth form with where it can take them in the future.

Students at JLC benefit from a culture of curiosity and ambition, supported by teachers and a careers team who actively seek out opportunities to broaden horizons and inspire next steps. This visit to Sheffield Hallam is a strong example of that commitment in action.

If you are considering sixth form and have an interest in computing, game development or the digital industries, John Leggott College has the courses, the support and the connections to help you get where you want to go.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the GameOver26 festival at Sheffield Hallam University?

GameOver26 is a game development showcase held as part of Sheffield Hallam University's Festival of Computing. It brings together students, tutors and industry professionals to celebrate innovation in gaming and gives prospective students a real insight into what studying game development at degree level involves.

What computing courses does John Leggott College offer?

JLC offers three computing pathways: A Level Computer Science for students with strong mathematical ability aiming for competitive university courses; Applied Computing BTEC for those who prefer a practical, project-based approach covering game and application development; and the Digital Production, Design and Development T Level, which combines classroom learning with 315 hours of industry placement.

What is the difference between A Level Computer Science and Applied Computing at JLC?

A Level Computer Science is academically focused, covering programming theory, algorithms, data structures and computational thinking, and suits students aiming for university degrees in Computer Science or Engineering. 

Applied Computing is a vocational BTEC that takes a more hands-on approach, covering game development, web design and UX/UI through practical projects. Both lead to strong progression routes but suit different learning styles and career goals.

How does JLC prepare students for life after sixth form in computing and digital careers?

JLC supports students through dedicated careers guidance, university visits, industry events and enrichment activities such as the GameOver26 trip. Students on the T Level also complete 315 hours of industry placement, giving them real workplace experience before they leave sixth form.