After a short hiatus the Grads In Games Awards are now closing in, so we’re very pleased to remind you of the finalists of the Grads in Games Awards for 2020, ahead of our winners reveal in a few weeks!

The Grads In Games Awards recognise the people, studios and institutions that have made a real impact in improving the links between the games industry and education.  

With over 250 nominations across the board, this years awards have highlighted more than ever some of the incredible work being done. Before we introduce the finalists we would like to extend our thanks to our judging panel who took the time to review our shortlists and decide our winners. Without their incredibly hard work we would not be able to make this happen! 

The Grads in Games Awards Judging Panel 

Shahneila Saeed – Head of Education at UKIE
Rosemary Buahin – Games Category Lead at Xbox UK
James Tatum – Lead Programmer at Bulkhead Interactive
Philip & Andrew Oliver – Directors at Game Dragons
Viki Freeman – HR Business Partner at Team17
Nick Dixon – Senior Lecturer at Falmouth University 

This years winners will be announced Sep 15^th to Sep 18^th, keep an eye out on Grads in Games to find our winners for 2020! 

So without any further delay we are now proud to introduce this years finalists: 

---

Academic Award 

These are the academics that go beyond just the lectures, are often excellent student mentors, organise industry events and speakers, and can show wide-ranging beneficial results of their work. 

---

Educational Institution Award
Higher Education

Universities and HE institutions that have demonstrated a real, positive impact with their students over the past 12 months. 

---

Educational Institution Award
Further Education

Colleges and FE institutions that have demonstrated a real, positive impact with their students over the past 12 months. 

---

Student Hero Award 

Current games students who have demonstrated a positive impact with their their fellow students over the past 12 months, showcasing students who are the doing the most to support, progress and inspire their peers through a range of pro-active and supportive activities. 

---

Student Game Award 

Student games projects published within the past 12 months, that demonstrate a strong talent and aptitude from its developer(s). 

---

Industry Collaboration Award 

Showcasing universities and studios that demonstrate strong interaction and build direct connections between courses and the games industry. 

Outplay Academy + Abertay University 

Rare + University of Portsmouth 

Spilt Milk + East London Arts & Music 

Tiny Rebel Games + University of South Wales 

TT Games + University of Central Lancashire 

---

Graduate Employer Award 

Games studios & companies that have demonstrated a positive and pro-active approach in hiring and supporting graduates & interns over the past 12 months. 

---

Graduate Impact Award 

Recent graduates and junior staff that have exceeded expectations in a studio role. Showcasing the people that are making their first steps in the industry but are already creating a hugely positive impact, not just within their studio but also towards the industry as a whole. 

---

Congratulations to all of our finalists, and we look forward to revealing the winners from September 15th!