TAFE Queensland launches landmark Esports program to power the next generation of gaming professionals

Delivered through the TAFE Queensland Academy of Sport, the program creates pathways for both high school students and adult learners, blending nationally recognised qualifications with real-world experience in competitive gaming, coaching, content creation, and media.

For high school students

From Term 1, 2026, students now have the opportunity to enrol in a dual certificate qualification that combines the Certificate II in Sport Coaching (Esports) (SIS20321) with the Certificate III in Screen and Media (CUA31020).

This innovative, hands-on course gives students the chance to develop skills in coaching esports teams, creating digital content, and building an understanding of the rapidly evolving media landscape.

Open to students in Years 10 -12, the program is delivered across four school terms and contributes directly to QCE credits, while the Certificate III also supports ATAR eligibility requirements.

Importantly, the Certificate II in Sport Coaching is subsidised for eligible students under the Queensland government’s VETiS subsidy scheme in 2026. This means students who have not yet accessed VETiS funding for another course can complete this qualification at no cost.

Industry-aligned opportunities

Students in the program will benefit from connections with leading esports organisations, as well as guest speakers from the gaming and technology sectors, bringing real-world insights directly into the classroom. Training is delivered in state-of-the-art facilities at South Bank, ensuring students gain hands-on experience with the tools and environments used across the industry.

Graduates also have access to articulation pathways into higher education, including TAFE Queensland diploma programs and the Bachelor of Information Technology, delivered in partnership with the University of Canberra - opening the door to further study and career opportunities in both esports and the broader tech sector.

What they’re saying

Brent Kinnane, TAFE Queensland General Manager – Brisbane, said the program reflects TAFE’s commitment to staying ahead of emerging industries:

“Esports is one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, with incredible opportunities not just for players, but for coaches, content creators, event managers and IT specialists. By combining sport, media and ICT in a single program, we’re giving students a future-proof skillset and a head start in a multi-billion-dollar industry.”

Don Harley, Manager of the TAFE Queensland Academy of Sport, said the program builds on the Academy’s success in integrating education with elite and emerging sports:

“We’ve proven that industry-integrated education works in traditional sports through our partnerships with clubs like the Brisbane Broncos and Brisbane Lions - now we’re taking that same model into the digital arena. This is about recognising esports as a legitimate career pathway and offering students the same high-performance training, industry links, and work experience we provide to our rugby, football, and cricket students.”

With the global esports market projected to exceed AUD 2.78 billion by 2026, and Australia emerging as a key hub for competitive gaming events, this program positions students at the forefront of one of the world’s fastest-growing industries.