The British Academy of Film and Television Arts is an independent charity that supports, develops and promotes the art forms of the moving image by identifying and rewarding excellence, inspiring practitioners and benefiting the public.
The YGD Mentor Award, nominated by the public for their involvement in the education of young game designers, was awarded to Dave Chilver, Teacher of IT and Games Design at Lowestoft Sixth Form College.
Dave started teaching 10 years ago after completing his degree in Games Design and throughout his career has promoted the games as a viable career path rather than simply a media to be consumed. Outside of timetabled lessons, Dave runs several extracurricular coding and game design sessions, and for the past eight years has led the Lowestoft Game Designers Competition Club for students in the local community. The initiative has gone from strength to strength, and entries are now judged by the University of Suffolk and exhibited at the Norwich Gaming Festival. Across his career, Dave has worked tirelessly to promote Computer Science and Game Design to girls, and 46% of entrants to the Lowestoft competition last year were female, many of whom have gone on to study STEM subjects as a result.
HRH The Duke of Cambridge, President of BAFTA, said:
“With a large number of entries coming through schools this year, it is encouraging to see teachers and educators regarding BAFTA’s initiative as a valuable means to equip their students with digital skills.”
Everyone at Lowestoft Sixth Form College is so proud of Dave, with his constant hard work and support he really does deserve this award. The students describe him as a ‘legend’ and enjoy his lessons very much. Well done Dave!