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Primary School Cup

Australian Esports League announces the 2024 Minecraft Schools program

By Events, High School Cup, Minecraft, News, Primary School Cup

This years program features the return of the AEL Minecraft Build Challenge and the introduction of the AEL Minecraft Capture the Flag esports series enabling exciting opportunities for high school, primary school, and homeschool students to showcase their Minecraft skills.

The AEL is thrilled to announce its 2024 school programs, featuring two engaging Minecraft events designed to inspire creativity and strategic thinking among students across Australia. The programs include the Minecraft Build Challenge and the Minecraft Capture The Flag esports event, both set to unfold in two exciting series this year, catering to high school, primary school, and homeschool students.

The AEL is proud to continue its partnership with Microsoft and the Minecraft Education team to promote this series, building upon the success of last year’s event. This collaboration underscores our mutual commitment to delivering high-quality educational and competitive experiences for students nationwide.

Minecraft Build Challenge: Unleashing Creativity

The Minecraft Build Challenge invites students to leverage their creativity and teamwork to construct impressive structures within Minecraft. With two series planned for the year, the challenge will consist of three competition pools based on year groups: years 4-6, 7-9, and 10-12, each facing a unique theme to guide their builds. Home schoolers are also welcome, competing in a dedicated pool to ensure fair play and recognition.

First Series Dates:

  • Registrations Close: 15th March
  • Competition Starts: 18th March
  • Submissions Due: 24th May
  • Results Announced: 10th June

Second Series Dates:

  • Registrations Close: 16th August
  • Competition Starts: 19th August
  • Submissions Due: 18th October
  • Results Announced: 4th November

Themes for each competition pool will be disclosed post-registration, adding an element of surprise and excitement as teams gear up to showcase their architectural prowess.

Check out the submissions from last year’s challenge here: 2023 AEL Minecraft Build Challenge.

Minecraft Capture The Flag: Strategic Esports Action

Complementing the Build Challenge, the Minecraft Capture The Flag event will test students’ strategic and teamwork skills in a dynamic esports environment. This competition, too, will occur over two series, culminating in an in-person nationals event with details to be announced soon.

The Capture The Flag event promises to be a thrilling experience, encouraging students to engage in competitive play while fostering communication, strategy, and sportsmanship.

Empowering Students Through Esports

The AEL’s 2024 Minecraft programs aim to provide a platform for students to express their creativity, engage in healthy competition, and connect with peers sharing similar interests. Beyond the fun and excitement of gameplay, participants will have the opportunity to develop valuable life skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and strategic planning.

Stay tuned for more details on the Minecraft Capture The Flag dates and the announcement of the national event. Schools, students, and homeschoolers interested in participating are encouraged to register promptly to secure their spot in these eagerly anticipated competitions.

For more information and to register for the events, please visit the AEL’s official website: AEL Minecraft Programs.

The AEL is proud to share it is sponsored by AGON by AOC the gaming monitor partner and Indomie Australia the noodle partner.

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to be a part of Australia’s growing esports community through the engaging world of Minecraft. Join us in celebrating creativity, strategic gameplay, and the spirit of competition in 2024!

Australian Esports League Unveils Exciting 2024 School Esports Programs

By High School Cup, News, Primary School Cup

The Australian Esports League (AEL) is thrilled to announce its comprehensive School esports programs for 2024, designed for both High School and Primary School students across Australia. This year’s lineup promises to be more engaging than ever, with a variety of gaming events and the support of our esteemed partners.

Innovative Gaming Experiences for Students

Our 2024 programs include:

  • Minecraft Build Challenges: Set to inspire creativity and collaboration, the Minecraft Build Challenges will be held twice this year.

    These challenges, catering to Years 5-6, Years 7-9, and Years 10-12, will have their specific details announced in mid-February.

    The first series runs from 11th March to 3rd June, with the second series from 19th August to 4th November.

    Details for registration will be updated at www.ael.org.au/minecraft with a general notice being shared once live.
  • High School Esports Program: A dynamic and inclusive initiative designed to bring competitive gaming to high school students across Australia. This program offers a diverse range of popular games each term, providing students with an opportunity to develop teamwork, strategic thinking, and digital skills in a fun and engaging environment

    Starting with Trackmania, Overwatch 2, and Rocket League for Term 1. The addition of Minecraft Capture the Flag and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate will come into play from Term 2.

    Dates:
    Term 1 will run from 24th February – 23rd March
    Term 2 will run from 4th May – 8th June
    Term 3 will run from 10th August – 14th September
    Term 4 will run from 2nd November – 23rd November

    *note: these dates are subject to change
  • High School Nationals at PAX Australia: The pinnacle of the High School esports program, the nationals, will be held from 11th to 13th October 2024 at PAX Australia.

    Further details on qualification and attendance will be announced shortly. We are excited to share all the details with everyone soon!
  • Inclusivity for Home School Students: Home school students are invited to join in the excitement with Trackmania available from Term 1 and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate from Term 2. Home School students will also be included in the Minecraft build challenges, we’re excited to welcome everyone into the competition this year!

Why Esports Matters: Benefits for Students

Participating in esports offers numerous benefits for students. It fosters critical thinking, teamwork, strategic planning, and improves hand-eye coordination. Esports also offers a platform for students to explore STEAM fields and develop IT skills in a competitive yet supportive environment. Engaging in esports can enhance students’ school experience, build community, and nurture a sense of belonging.

Parents, Get Excited!

For parents, esports represents a unique opportunity for your children to engage in a safe, moderated, and educational platform that promotes healthy competition. It’s an avenue for students to develop social skills, build friendships, and gain valuable life experiences, all while having fun in the process.

Calling All Teachers: Get Your School Involved

We invite teachers to become part of this exciting journey. If you’re interested in introducing esports at your school, the AEL is here to assist. Our programs are designed to be easily integrated into school curriculums, offering a unique blend of education and entertainment.

Acknowledging Our Partners

We are grateful for the support of our partners, which is vital in bringing these programs to life. Special thanks to AGON by AOC, our gaming monitor partner, and Indomie Australia, our noodle partner. Their continued support enhances the esports experience for all participants.

We also extend our gratitude to Microsoft Australia and the Microsoft Education team for their backing of the Minecraft Education program. Their involvement underscores the educational value of esports in learning environments.

Stay Tuned for Primary School Program Details

Details on the Primary School games and dates will be announced shortly. We are committed to providing younger students with exciting and educational esports experiences. Keep an eye out for www.ael.org.au/primary when it goes live later this month!

About Australian Esports League

The Australian Esports League is dedicated to developing esports in Australia. We are focused on community and player. By providing platforms for gamers to compete, we aim to foster talent and create pathways for students to excel in the fast-growing world of esports.

Contact

Email our friendly team at [email protected] with any queries and we’ll be happy to help!