Overworld AMP - AIM's 2024 Recognised Centre of the Year

Overworld AMP Ltd, an independent alternative provision (AP) specialising in supporting neurodiverse young people, was awarded AIM's 2024 Recognised Centre of the Year. This prestigious recognition highlights the organisation's exceptional impact on the lives of its learners through innovative and engaging educational programs delivered using AIM's regulated qualifications.

Background 

Overworld AMP Ltd have been a recognised AIM centre since 2020, initially reaching out to AIM to develop the AIM Qualifications Level 3 Award in eSports Business and Industry Knowledge and the Level 3 Extended Award in eSports Business, Industry Knowledge and Tournament Organisation qualifications to professionalise eSports amongst the gaming community.

The AP saw significant growth during the pandemic when they created an online version of the Level 3 eSports, Business and Industry Knowledge, which was taught using blended learning and enabled international delivery. The initiative successfully attracted students from countries as far as South Africa and Kuwait. The eSports sector is anticipated to reach a value of £1.4bn by 2025 and is now widely recognised as a valid career option amongst the gaming community.

Mentoring qualifications

Overworld have also launched the Level 2 Mentorship Practices qualification which enables them to train existing students to become employed members of staff after graduation, allowing them to shape the next generation of employees as well as saving on recruitment time and cost. Through the work-experience element of the programme, students earn points which they can track, budget and cash-in for tech rewards such as high-spec controllers.

Peer mentoring is the foundation of their provision. It fosters a supportive and relatable learning environment, enhancing personal growth and skill development through shared experiences and mutual encouragement.

“Academic qualifications are not essential for our Gaming Assistants, so being able to offer AIM endorsed courses and regulated qualifications allows us to upskill our apprentices and junior employees, boosting their moral and aiding retention,” said Emma Rothery, Overworld AMP Lt’s Training and Quality Manager.

Endorsed provision

Overworld also offers bespoke learning programmes that are developed in-house and delivered through registered centre, ASDAN. AIM provides the certification for these bespoke programmes and also endorses their SEND specific programmes with a quality kitemark.

“AIM prioritises accessibility, ensuring that all learners can engage effectively with the course materials and resources", continued Emma. “For our young people, the bespoke programmes offer the low-demand, interest-based learning they need to succeed and a clear route into paid work.

“Our collaboration with AIM underscores our commitment to continuous improvement and proactive adaptation to meet the evolving needs of both learners and the industry” she said. “Our efforts have made us the preferred supplier of alternative provision for many local schools and councils.

“As we have grown, we have been able to take on more staff, many of whom have their own SEND and SEMH needs. They ‘get it’ and act as positive role models for our young people”.

Looking forward

Overworld has ambitious plans for the future. They aim to enhance their training programs by providing all new Gaming Assistants with the Level 3 Mentorship Practices qualification during their induction. Additionally, they intend to offer post-14 trainees Personal and Social Development qualifications tailored to their needs.

The company is set to expand significantly in Autumn 2024, moving to larger premises and becoming the largest independent AP in its field. They also plan to establish paid apprenticeships and strengthen partnerships with eSports organisations and industry leaders to provide practical learning experiences and career opportunities for their program graduates.

“All our students possess a natural passion and talent for computer-based activities but struggle with traditional learning methods”, said Emma.

“AIM offers us the ability to create truly bespoke and meaningful educational packages with the flexibility our vulnerable learners need”. 

Learner testimonials

A is autistic and has just completed a Level 2 qualification in Personal and Social Development and a work placement at a local sports centre with his mentors’ support. This is Overworld’s first submission of this qualification and their EQA was successful. As well as his qualification in eSports, Business and Industry Knowledge, A will leave the provision with valuable life-skills, straight into a job.

H has complex needs including Tourette’s Syndrome. He is completing a full Level 2 Diploma in Skills for the Creative Industries - Games Design. He will make two small video games with Overworld and leave with a qualification that will grant him access onto a Level 3 mainstream provision if he wishes. He may stay on another year where he will be their first student taking on a full Level 3 extended diploma (if funding is agreed). This will run as a two-year full course delivering the same content as an FE course in the subject. After this he could make a university application with his grade and portfolio. Overworld has two other learners taking Level 2 in Game Design.

Discover AIMs regulated qualifications here.

For more information on Overworld and its award-winning provision, visit https://overworld-amp.uk/