Free gaming management course at The City of Liverpool College

Liverpool is levelling up its position as one of the UK’s fastest-growing gaming hubs — and now there’s a unique opportunity for creatives and professionals already working in the sector to take their careers to the next stage.

The City of Liverpool College has teamed up with GameChangers, a Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Careers Hub initiative, to launch a Principles of Management and Leadership Level 3 Diploma – a gaming course designed specifically to support the next generation of team leaders, producers and operational managers in the video games industry.

And here’s the game-changer — for those who meet the eligibility criteria (including individuals earning under £34,000 a year), the course is completely free of charge.

The diploma begins in September and is aimed at current or aspiring games professionals who want to boost their skills in areas like project delivery, budget and data management, team leadership and stakeholder communication. In short — everything needed to confidently lead within a modern games studio.

What makes this course different is that it’s been created with the industry itself in mind. Developed in collaboration with GameChangers, which is all about connecting education and the games industry, the course blends academic rigour with real-world relevance.

Delivered through a mix of on-campus sessions and online learning, modules are designed to help learners become more confident leaders and contributors to the development pipeline. Whether you’re managing a testing team, leading on production, or coordinating a project for a AAA title or indie game, the diploma offers essential tools to succeed.

Once completed, graduates will be ready to apply for roles such as team leader, project coordinator, shift manager in QA, support teams or production supervisor. It’s also a great launchpad for those wanting to climb the ladder in an industry that’s rapidly expanding across the Liverpool City Region.

Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said the initiative is a major step forward for local talent.

“The Liverpool City Region has always been a place brimming with creativity and talent, and our gaming sector is no exception. This new diploma is another big step forward in putting our region at the forefront of the UK’s digital and creative industries. With leading games studios backing the programme, we’re opening up new, exciting pathways for local people to build careers in a fast-growing industry that’s thriving right here on our doorstep.”

The course also represents a further strengthening of the partnership between The City of Liverpool College and GameChangers, both of which are committed to giving people the skills needed to thrive in the creative and digital space.

Neil Borg-Olivier, Vice Principal of Curriculum Development and Innovation at The City of Liverpool College, said:

“This diploma is the latest development in our ongoing relationship with GameChangers. We’re proud to be offering a programme that will provide real, tangible career opportunities to learners already working in — or looking to work in — one of the most exciting industries in the region.”

And from the industry side, there’s strong support from games studios themselves.

Alison Lacy, Chief Operating Officer at Radical Forge, added:

“It’s fantastic to see a diploma that reflects the real skills the games industry needs. The partnership between GameChangers and The City of Liverpool College has created something special — a programme that supports growth in our sector and gives people the tools to succeed. As our industry continues to grow, strong team leaders and operational talent will be more essential than ever.”

Liverpool already boasts a thriving indie gaming scene and is home to a growing number of developers, tech specialists and creative innovators working across console, mobile, and virtual platforms. With new investment, regional support and initiatives like this diploma, the city is fast becoming one of the most exciting places in the UK to start — and grow — a career in games.

The Principles of Management and Leadership Diploma starts in September 2025, and places are expected to fill fast.

To find out more, check your eligibility and apply, head to the college website.

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