Royal opening for Paddington Academy

HRH The Princess Royal today formally opened the highly impressive Paddington Academy.

One of the games industry’s greatest charitable achievements, the specialist school for performing arts, media, business and enterprise was co-funded by the United Learning Trust and GamesAid (formerly the Entertainment Software Charity).

The games industry has already donated over 1 million to the Academy and has a total funding commitment of 1.7 million.

Although students began attending in September 2007, it was officially opened today by HRH The Princess Royal in front of a variety of notables and funding partners, including games industry representatives.

The Academy has been one of the focal points for money raised by our industry over a number of years,” ELSPA chairman Andy Payne told MCV.

It’s a very proud day for everyone involved and a real thrill to be here to witness such a positive learning environment.

The games industry must now retain its relationship with the Academy, helping to mentor and develops skills.

We must put the message forward that learning subjects such as maths and physics is absolutely essential for anyone who wants to have an essential role in the design and creation of great video games content for the global market.”