RGC Online’s Game Design diploma module has been crowned “Best Educational Programme” at the 2023 Scottish Games Awards in Glasgow.

Jamie Hepburn MSP, Cumbernauld and Kilsyth was on hand to open the awards. 

RGC Online has been at the forefront of leveraging technology to provide a world-class learning experience for its students. The school's online platform aims to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education in Scotland by making SQA-accredited courses accessible and engaging for students of all backgrounds, anywhere in the country. 

The Games Design Module is a cornerstone of the RGC Online Diploma programme, catering to S5 and S6 pupils at Robert Gordon's College and RGC Online. The self-study online course equips students with essential game design knowledge and skills including a solid foundation in game design, mastering game flow, the importance of storytelling, practical game development and sights into the gaming industry. Further modules are also available in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cyber Security and Entrepreneurship. A new Quantum Computing module is also currently in development.

Mrs Jess Power, Head of RGC Online, led the course's development, with input from counterparts at Coventry University including Mia Mohac and Viktorija Baliukonyte, Assistant Lecturers in Games Technologies, and Stuart Ross from 4JStudios to ensure its industry relevance.

Mrs Power said: "We are honoured to receive this award. RGC Online has opened new horizons for learning for students across Scotland, making it not just a tool for knowledge but a platform for fostering creativity and innovation. We are immensely proud of our students and the opportunities this recognition will bring them.

“The backing of our supporters has been instrumental in this journey, and their belief in our mission has made all the difference. We are profoundly grateful for their contribution, and this award is a reflection of their dedication, experience and guidance. I was privileged to attend the Education Symposium during Scottish Games week, and met so many dedicated educators who are making such a difference to the Scottish Tech ecosystem.”

Cameron, S5 student, commented: “As someone who is very interested in computers but still doesn’t know exactly what course to take, these modules have helped me to narrow down my options for University and learn more about what I love.

“The Games Design module inspired me to learn more about it and I ended up creating a 2D platformer game using Unity. The module is surprisingly easy to learn from and is extremely useful for anyone thinking about becoming a game developer.”

Mr Robin Macpherson, Head of Robert Gordon’s College, commented: “RGC Online has broken new ground in Scottish education and we're delighted that this has been recognised by Scottish Games Week. The gaming industry is a great Scottish success story, but we need to ensure we remain a global leader and that means bringing through the next generation of talented young people, no matter what their background is. RGC Online is really achieving that, and we're so excited about its future growth and impact. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this remarkable journey."

For more information, visit: www.rgc.aberdeen.sch.uk/rgconline