Strathallan has become one of the only schools in the United Kingdom to house elite-level esports equipment for its students.
A competitive esports racer, founder of Sim Staff and former pupil Josh Martin helped install the four competitive gaming rigs at the leading British boarding school.
Esports, short for electronic sports, is a form of competition using video games.
Esports often takes the form of organized, multiplayer video game competitions, particularly between professional players, individually or as teams.
After unveiling the state-of-the-art gaming gear at the weekend, Josh said: “It’s a great time to be a student at Strathallan.
“This is a truly exciting opportunity for the school.
“Strathallan now has four racing simulators, on which pupils can play a wide variety of games and familiarise themselves with the fundamentals of esports and the opportunities this presents.
“I can definitely see some great competitions brewing at the school.”
Former pupil Josh Martin was the brains behind the operation
Josh, whose company Sim Staff has provided support to brands such as Samantha Tan Racing, Gfinity and Formula One, added: “Esports has grown massively over the last few years.
“It has gone from being largely hobbyist to full-time careers, scholarships and global partnerships with major brands.
“The potential is enormous.
“Formula One, the teams engaged and other sporting bodies are offering paid opportunities for players to compete with them virtually.
“Hopefully, over time, we will see even more opportunities become available for the next generation of gamers.”
Driving forward esports at the school, Neil Hamilton, head of instrumental music, said: “When I was asked if I would get the project running, I was thrilled.
“This is such a progressive move for the school and really demonstrates that they are aware of what pupils are interested in currently.”
“This is such an amazing asset for the school and the pupils seem to wholeheartedly agree.
“A superb addition to their boarding experience.
“Who knows, we might see some pupils playing for Scotland on the international esports stage in the future.”
