Game Design, Animation and Media Students Attend Let’s Talk Games 2026

On 11 February, Level 3 Animation and Game Design and Level 3 Creative Media students travelled to Leamington Spa to attend the annual Let’s Talk Games industry event, gaining direct exposure to the realities of working in the games sector.

Delivered by Staffordshire University and supported by leading studios including Sumo Digital, Playground Games and Wacom, the event brought together representatives from 26 colleges and universities across the UK.

Students heard from experienced industry professionals through keynote talks and roundtable discussions focused on breaking into games design. Portfolio reviews led by working games artists gave learners practical, honest feedback on how to raise their standards and strengthen their employability.

For many, it was their first opportunity to network face to face with studio professionals and peers on similar pathways, helping them understand the expectations, skills and behaviours required in the industry.

Creative Media students approached the event from a different angle. As part of a live brief, they produced on-the-ground coverage for Stanmore Studios, filming interviews with games professionals and representatives from other institutions. The experience combined technical production skills with real-world client interaction, mirroring industry practice.

The visit gave students more than inspiration. It provided clarity on next steps, insight into industry standards and a clearer understanding of how to position themselves for careers in the UK games sector.

A sincere thank you to the Let’s Talk Games team, especially Michael Acosta at Staffordshire University, for creating meaningful opportunities for Stanmore students to engage with professionals and take practical steps towards careers in the games industry.