ISA National Esports Competition: powering up potential

The Independent Schools Association (ISA) saw a growing number of its member schools embracing esports, as an extracurricular activity or within the curriculum. Seeing the value in that, ISA set out to create a national platform for esports competition, and with DAIGON’s support and DLD College’s hosting it launched its inaugural National Esports Competition.

At a glance

• Saturday 9 March 2024 at DLD College, central London
• Minecraft for junior pupils and Rocket League for seniors
• Morning: 4 junior and 3 senior teams. Afternoon: 5 junior and 4 senior teams
• A live stream so everyone could follow the finals

The event

The centrepiece was DLD’s state-of-the-art esports suite: top-tier gaming PCs, comfortable seating and high-speed internet, where junior competitors locked in strategic concentration as they vied for victory.

The spirit of inclusivity extended beyond those walls. DLD set up a second area for the senior Rocket League competition, plus computers where competitors could practise first, so every pupil could take part. Students from a wide range of backgrounds and technical abilities showcased their skills and shared the camaraderie of the day.

A live stream brought the action to everyone who could not be there, adding energy to the nail-biting finals as the virtual audience cheered teams on.

A day of dual competitions

Morning and afternoon sessions each ran separate Minecraft and Rocket League tournaments, crowning winners and runners-up in each age category. Every session opened with a welcome from ISA and DLD College and a full explanation of the rules by DAIGON.

The junior squads clashed in Minecraft, building, battling and trying to capture the opposition’s flag while defending their own. The seniors shifted gears to Rocket League, a fast, physics-based game of rocket-powered cars that demands lightning reflexes, seamless teamwork and pinpoint control. In the afternoon, two intrepid Year 6 squads entered too, a sign of how widely esports now reaches across age groups.

“A huge thanks to the DAIGON team for ensuring all the competitions ran smoothly and on time.”

— Independent Schools Association

Benefits observed

Increased student engagement

The competition sparked school spirit across year groups. Pupils with SEND played alongside their peers on a level field: the virtual setting removed physical barriers and gave a safe space for social interaction, even for pupils with social anxieties. For those who might not excel in traditional sports, it was a place to belong and to shine.

Development of valuable skills

The pressure of competition sharpened critical thinking and strategic planning. Communication and teamwork became essential as pupils coordinated in game. For many it was a new challenge outside their comfort zone that, with supportive adults they knew, built resilience and emotional regulation, skills that carry into future competitions, academics and life. Pupils with SEND gained a national stage to show their talents and build confidence.

Fostering a positive school culture

The shared passion for gaming crossed social circles and year groups. Pupils who might never have met found common ground, made friends and celebrated each other’s wins, building a sense of community that lasted beyond the day.

Conclusion

The ISA National Esports Competition, held in association with DAIGON, was a positive experience for everyone involved: it raised engagement, built valuable skills and created a positive atmosphere for competition. ISA now intends esports to become a regular part of its annual competition calendar, helping its schools empower students to thrive in a digital age.

Case study by the Independent Schools Association, April 2024.

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Download the original case study (PDF)