Why Games Education?

At a pivotal moment caught between financial turbulence in UK universities and the games industry, and the dawn of the UK government's Creative Industries Sector Plan 2026–2035 we're bringing people together to ask a fundamental question: Why Games Education?

This is an unconference: no keynotes, no predetermined agenda, no passive audiences. Instead, you shape the day. After a panel session to kickstart the event, participants collectively decide what gets discussed, turning the event into a living conversation driven by the people in the room. Expect open dialogue, fun activities, emergent ideas, and genuine collaboration.

Together we'll map the strengths and gaps in Games Education today, and explore how innovative teaching practices can connect with a creative industry defined by constant reinvention, and where it all might go next.

Panelists:

Jet Vellinga is a narrative designer, screenwriter, and transmedia producer with a background in interactive theatre and games. She holds an MA in Assyriology and an MFA from the NYU Game Center and is a full-time lecturer in games at The University of East London.

Dr Michael Cook is a Senior Lecturer and Deputy Head of the Human-Centred Computing Group at King's College London, where he researchers artificial intelligence, game design and creativity. He is also an independent game designer and science communicator, and a former competitive coin flipper.

Mick Hunter is an ex-teacher who began working in games as an amateur mod developer. After swapping careers and earning an MA in Games Design, he now works as a developer in the indie scene, making games about information and ethics

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Brunel University of London