Swiss International Scientific School in Dubai (SISD), part of the renowned Nord Anglia Education network, is set to become one of the pioneering schools to integrate the BTEC Level 2 qualification in Esports into its curriculum. This bold step reflects the school’s commitment to preparing students for a rapidly evolving global workplace.
Launching in August 2025 in collaboration with EStars, the elective will be available to Grades 6 and 7 students, complementing the school’s IB Middle Years Programme (MYP). Alongside Esports, SISD is introducing a suite of dynamic electives, including Instrumental Music in partnership with The Juilliard School, Computer Science, Entrepreneurial Thinking, and Language Acquisition in French, German, and Spanish.
Students can select one elective, offering opportunities to explore fields beyond traditional classroom boundaries. These electives will sit alongside the IB MYP core subjects: Language Acquisition, Language and Literature, Sciences, Mathematics, Individuals and Societies, Arts, Physical and Health Education, and Design.
Esports at SISD goes beyond gaming. The qualification introduces students to a thriving billion-dollar global industry and supports the Dubai Future Foundation Programme for Gaming, which is expected to create over 30,000 jobs by 2033. Accredited by Pearson Education, the programme equips students with industry insights, digital entrepreneurship skills, and access to an expanding Esports network.
Paul Gardner, Head of Secondary (Middle School) at SISD, said:
“At SISD, we believe education should be as dynamic and forward-thinking as the world our students are preparing to enter. Esports is one of the fastest-growing sectors globally – and by offering this qualification, we’re helping students transform their passion into potential. This isn’t just about gaming – it’s about digital entrepreneurship, leadership, communication and innovation. We’re proud to be leading the way in the UAE, and globally.”
The programme offers multiple career pathways, from team management and production to broadcasting, marketing, analysis, and event organisation. It also enhances essential transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and digital fluency.
Mags Byrne, Founder and CEO of EStars, said:
“We are delighted to be working with the SISD team, to provide students with an innovative qualification to transform how students are prepared for the fast-growing global industry.”
SISD balances innovation with responsible technology use. Secondary students hand in their mobile phones daily, with devices secured in classroom safes until lessons conclude. Laptops and tablets are restricted in communal areas, fostering stronger social interaction. Each lesson begins with 10 tech-free minutes to encourage healthy digital habits, and teachers receive specialised training based on the SAMR model to ensure technology enhances – rather than dominates – learning.
By introducing the BTEC in Esports, SISD is aligning its curriculum with Dubai’s future workforce needs while inspiring students to develop confidence, creativity, and a global perspective. This initiative cements SISD’s position as a trailblazer in shaping future-ready learners.
