High Schools

Jul 20

Term 3 School Esports Starting Soon

By AEL DEV News, Schools

Calling all high schools! Registrations for Term 3 of the Australian Esports League’s High School Esports program close 27th July!

The next term of competition is coming, and the Australian Esports League is ready to roll out another massive schedule of competitive gaming for students across Australia. Whether your school is looking to field an official team, or support individual student drivers, there is a place for everyone in Term 3.

Here is everything you need to know about what is coming up and how to lock in your spots.

AEL School Esports (Term 3)

Our core inter-school competition returns to give high school students the opportunity to represent their school in a structured, safe, and competitive environment. Build teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship on the national stage.

Registration Deadline: Monday, 27th July
Who Can Join: High schools nationwide
Format: Multi-week structured competition across flagship titles including VALORANT, Minecraft (Capture the Flag), Marvel Rivals, Super Smash and Rocket League
How to Join: School coordinators must register teams directly with the AEL and complete participation fee payments.

Visit the AEL School League landing page for more information: https://ael.org.au/school/league/

AEL Virtual Grand Prix

Starts: Saturday, 8th August

Get ready to hit the track! The AEL Virtual Grand Prix is returning for another high-octane season. This competition is open directly to student drivers across Australia, offering a national platform to showcase their sim-racing talent.

Registration Deadline: Wednesday, 5th August
Key Information for Families: This is a parent-funded, direct-entry event. While schools are encouraged to share the opportunity with their community, parents register and manage their child’s entry directly.
Format: Competitive virtual racing divisions with live leaderboards and officiating.
Requirements: Compatible racing setup and platform access (full details on the registration page).

Visit the AEL Virtual Grand Prix landing page for more information: https://ael.org.au/virtualgrandprix/

Questions or Assistance?

If you are a teacher looking to set up an esports program at your school, or a parent needing assistance with individual registration, the AEL team is here to help. Reach out to us via schools@ael.org.au and our support staff will get back to you at their soonest availability.

Why Get Involved?

Esports is about far more than just gaming—it is a platform for developing critical skills in strategic thinking, resilience, collaboration, and digital communication. Through AEL events, students build school pride, connect with peers across the country, and learn to thrive in structured, competitive environments underpinned by good sportsmanship.

Participating in a nationally recognised AEL competition ensures your school is backed by a professional framework that puts student wellbeing, digital citizenship, and online safety first.

To help celebrate your school’s involvement, participating schools also receive media assets to showcase student achievements, driving school spirit and highlighting your commitment to innovative extracurricular opportunities.

A Safe and Monitored Environment

Student safety and digital wellbeing are our highest priorities.

All AEL competitions are conducted within restricted, monitored digital environments tailored to each event type. Access is strictly limited to registered participants and verified educators, with active oversight and robust moderation standards maintained across all platforms to ensure a secure, respectful, and positive experience for every student.

We look forward to seeing your school compete in Term 3!

Apr 26

Love0

Term 1 Champions Crowned in the AEL School League

By AEL DEV News, Schools

The AEL School League has wrapped up an action‑packed Term 1, with students from across Australia showcasing their skill, teamwork and competitive spirit across multiple esports titles.

From intense one‑on‑one matchups to coordinated squad play, the opening term delivered standout performances across Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Marvel Rivals, Rocket League and Minecraft Capture the Flag, setting the benchmark for the 2026 season.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

The Smash Bros. competition featured strong individual performances across two divisions.

Division 1

🥇 Flare – Oakleigh Grammar
🥈 Chwomper – Villanova College
🥉 yabadadoo – Concordia Lutheran College

Division 2

🥇 Gao – Oakleigh Grammar
🥈 BarryTV – Gorokan High School
🥉 Adopte – Oakleigh Grammar

Oakleigh Grammar enjoyed a particularly successful term, securing multiple podium finishes across both divisions.

Marvel Rivals

The Marvel Rivals competition delivered a tightly contested main bracket, with school teams demonstrating strategic depth and consistency throughout the term.

Main Bracket

🥇 St Peter’s Lutheran College
🥈 MacKillop Catholic College
🥉 Trinity College Queensland

Consolation Bracket

🥇 Brisbane School of Distance Education
🥈 Phoenix P–12 Community College

Rocket League

Rocket League saw high‑intensity matches and several undefeated runs across three divisions.

Division 1

🥇 Phoenix P–12 Community College (undefeated)
🥈 Ashdale Secondary College
🥉 Launceston College

Division 2

🥇 Drouin Secondary College (Squad 1)
🥈 Geelong Lutheran College – Armstrong Creek
🥉 Drouin Secondary College (Squad 2)

Division 3

🥇 St Andrew’s Anglican College, Cairns
🥈 St Andrew’s Anglican College, Cairns
🥉 Bishop Druitt College

Minecraft Capture the Flag

Teamwork was on full display in Minecraft CTF, with squads battling it out for podium positions.

Main Bracket

🥇 Ashdale Secondary College
🥈 St Peter’s Lutheran College
🥉 Phoenix P–12 Community College

Consolation Bracket

🥇 Trinity Anglican College
🥈 Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College, Kensington

All results and full standings from Term 1 are available at www.ael.org.au/hs-standings.

The AEL School League continues to grow as a platform for students to compete, collaborate and develop digital and esports skills in a structured school‑based environment.

The AEL proudly thanks its sponsors AGON by AOC, HyperX, Officeworks and Indomie Australia for their ongoing support of school esports programs across the country.

Registrations Now Open for Term 2

Registrations for Term 2 of the AEL School League are now open, with entries closing on May 11.

Schools can find more information and register at:
👉 www.ael.org.au/school/league

Apr 23

Love0

Victorian Students Hit the Podium at Inaugural AEL Virtual Grand Prix

By AEL DEV News, Schools

The first-ever AEL Virtual Grand Prix (VGP) Victorian Students Competition has crowned its champions, capping off an electrifying race activation at the Melbourne Grand Prix Innovation Hub that drew thousands of student spectators across the day.

The AEL race stop was a hive of activity, with students lining up to take to the virtual track, test their racing skills and experience esports competition in a world‑class motorsport environment. The enthusiasm on display reflected growing student interest in esports and sim racing pathways, particularly as Australia looks toward the future of motorsport and digital competition.

After a tightly contested series of races, three students emerged as podium finishers in the inaugural Victorian edition of the Virtual Grand Prix:

🥇 Julien, St Francis Catholic College, Melton
🥈 Corbin, Vermont Secondary College
🥉 Anton, Buckley Park Secondary College

Each finalist demonstrated impressive racecraft, composure under pressure and technical skill, The event formed a key milestone in the broader launch of the AEL Virtual Grand Prix for Victorian schools, which was announced earlier this year as a new competitive platform designed to engage students through esports, STEM-aligned learning, and career pathways connected to motorsport, technology and digital industries.

The Melbourne activation gave students hands-on access to professional-grade racing setups while showcasing how esports can connect education, competition and industry at a large-scale public event.

AEL also acknowledged the support of Xbox Game Pass, with EA Play’s F1 25 available on the day through a Game Pass Ultimate subscription, allowing students to experience the latest Formula 1 title in a competitive, live setting.

The success of the event was made possible through collaboration with AEL’s partners, including AGON by AOC, Indomie Australia, HyperX, and Officeworks, whose contributions helped deliver a high-quality, inclusive experience for visiting students.

Looking ahead, AEL confirmed that the Virtual Grand Prix is just getting started. The organisation plans to continue delivering the competition term-by-term, expanding opportunities for students across Victoria while building momentum toward the 2027 Melbourne Grand Prix.

“Going forward, AEL is building something special,” an AEL spokesperson said. “The Virtual Grand Prix will continue to grow, giving students more chances to compete, connect and explore future pathways through esports and motorsport.”

With strong student participation, enthusiastic crowds and a showcase podium finish, the inaugural AEL Virtual Grand Prix has laid the foundation for a flagship student competition that blends education, esports and world-class racing culture.

To find out more about the AEL Virtual Grand Prix visit ael.org.au/virtualgrandprix

Feb 19

Love0

AEL Launches the “AEL Virtual Grand Prix” for Victorian Schools

By AEL DEV News, Schools

The Australian Esports League (AEL) and the Australian Grand Prix Corporation have partnered to create the ultimate motorsport experience for Victorian students: the AEL Virtual Grand Prix.

Powered by Xbox Game Pass, this premier tournament invites students from across the state to compete for racing glory. We are combining the thrill of the Grand Prix™ event with a structured esports competition, offering a unique blend of digital motorsport and real-world excitement.

Top qualifiers will earn a spot in the Champions Pool, representing their school and attending the Grand Prix™ on Thursday, March 5th to compete in the Grand Finals live from the Innovation Hub. This is the “Start Line” for the next generation of motorsport and gaming fans.

How to Register Registration is now open. Students and teachers can visit the official portal to view the full rule set, qualifier dates, and registration instructions. Secure your spot on the grid today at: www.ael.org.au/virtualgrandprix

From the Classroom to the Circuit The tournament is open to all students aged 10-18 currently enrolled in a Victorian school, providing an accessible pathway into competitive esports. Aspiring drivers have two ways to earn their grid position:

Secondary Division (Ages 13-18 / Years 7-12): Competitors will race in Online Qualifiers over the weekend of February 28 – March 1. Students can play from home or school on their own hardware (F1® 24 on PC or Xbox) with a stable internet connection. The Top 12 Drivers will qualify for the live finals.
Primary Division (Ages 10-12): A dedicated Junior Qualifier will be hosted in-person at Kingsville Primary on Saturday, February 28. Students will compete on AEL-provided Xbox consoles and controllers. The Top 4 Drivers will qualify for the live finals. (Note: A parent or guardian must remain on-site for supervision).

Each student who qualifies for the Champions Pool will earn a ticket for themselves and one parent to attend the live finals.

Race Where the Pros Race The grand final isn’t played in a classroom or from home. It is played metres from the track at the FORMULA 1® QATAR AIRWAYS AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX 2026.

The Venue: The Innovation Hub presented by Engineers Australia is the epicentre of future technology at Albert Park. It is a dedicated showcase where the brightest minds in motorsport, defence, aviation, and STEM come together.
The Atmosphere: Finalists won’t just be competing; they will be immersed in the electric energy of the Grand Prix™. Experience the roar of the engines, the smell of burning rubber, and the cutting-edge tech of the paddock. This is the ultimate excursion for any motorsport fan.

A Pathway for Future Talent “This competition is about more than just fast laps; it’s about giving students a platform to showcase their talent on a national stage,” says Darren Kwan, Director of the Australian Esports League. “Thanks to Xbox Game Pass and the realism of modern racing simulators, we are bridging the gap between gaming and professional motorsport, giving students a taste of the pressure and excitement of the Grand Prix™ paddock.”

About the Australian Esports League (AEL): The AEL is a leading provider of esports tournaments and gaming events in Australia, dedicated to building the grassroots ecosystem and providing structured competitions for schools, universities, and community groups.

Jan 21

Love0

A New Era of Digital Sport: Term 1 2026 High School League Registrations Are Open!

By AEL DEV News, Schools

The Australian Esports League is thrilled to officially launch the 2026 High School esports season.

Following significant upgrades to our platform and resources, Term 1 promises to be our most competitive and accessible season yet. We invite high schools across Australia to join hundreds of others in providing a structured, safe, and highly engaging arena for their students to compete, connect, and develop crucial future skills.

Registrations are open immediately for students in Years 7 through 12, with competition kicking off on February 21st.

The AEL is proudly sponsored by AGON by AOC the Gaming Monitor partner, Indomie Australia the Noodle partner, HyperX the Gaming Peripheral partner and Officeworks a retail partner.

More Than Just a Game

Esports in schools is moving beyond casual lunchtime play. It is rapidly becoming recognized as a legitimate “digital sport” that offers the same benefits as traditional field sports: communication under pressure, strategic planning, accountability, and resilience in the face of defeat.

Our Term 1 leagues provide a teacher-supervised environment where students can represent their school crest on a national stage, fostering school pride and engaging students who may not participate in traditional athletics.

The Term 1 Lineup

We have curated a diverse selection of titles to suit different skill sets, from high-speed teamwork to strategic engineering.

Rocket League (3v3): The premier digital sport combining soccer with physics-based driving.
Marvel Rivals (6v6): The new team-based hero shooter emphasizing role synergy and cooperation.
Minecraft: Capture the Flag (5v5): A test of engineering, resource management, and defensive strategy within Minecraft Education.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (1v1): A fast-paced test of mental agility, reaction time, and sportsmanship.

👉 View full competition details on our new Leagues Page

A Streamlined Experience for Teachers

To coincide with the 2026 launch, we have completely rebuilt the AEL Schools Hub. Teachers can now access game-specific resources, parent information letters, rulebooks, and simplified registration forms all in one place.

Contact the AEL via schools@ael.org.au about accessing the hub!

There are no team caps for any titles, allowing schools to enter as many squads as they wish to ensure maximum participation.

Key Dates & How to Register

Registrations Open: Now
Registrations Close: Monday, 16 February
Week 1 Begins: Saturday, 21 February

To register, a supervising teacher must complete the school registration form. Parents and students are encouraged to direct their teachers to the AEL website.

We look forward to seeing your school on the virtual pitch this term!

Nov 02

Love0

Fans Flocked to the AEL Zone at Oz Comic-Con Sydney

By AEL DEV Events, News, Schools, University Cup

UNSW Esports and UON Esports Club reigned supreme on the university stage at Oz Comic-Con Sydney while Gymea Technology High School claimed victory in the schools showdown.

The Australian Esports League (AEL) lit up Oz Comic-Con Sydney at the Sydney Showground on 20–21 September 2025, delivering another unforgettable weekend of esports action, creativity, and community connection.

We re-cap all the excitement and energy from those two incredible days, from packed crowds to nail-biting finals, the AEL Zone once again proved to be one of the most vibrant attractions on the show floor showcasing the best of Australia’s grassroots esports scene.

Re-watch the live stream on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6a2KePyO8Aw

University Esports Showcase – A Weekend of Rivalry and Respect

Saturday saw fierce competition between university clubs from across New South Wales in VALORANT and Rocket League, with students battling for pride, trophies, and bragging rights.

The final university standings were:

VALORANT Champions:

1st Place: UNSW Esports
2nd Place: UTS Esports
3rd Place: USYD Society of Gamers

Rocket League Champions:

1st Place: UON Esports Club
2nd Place: UNSW Esports
3rd Place: MQU Gaming

Thank you to all our university competitors for putting on a spectacular show.

Young Talent Shines in Minecraft CTF Schools Showcase

Sunday turned the spotlight onto the next generation of esports stars, as schools took to the Minecraft: Capture the Flag arena for a series of thrilling matches. The strategies were sharp, the builds were clever, and the excitement was contagious.

Minecraft CTF Schools Champions

1st Place: Gymea Technology High School
2nd Place: Caringbah High School
3rd Place: Oxley Park Public School

Relive the Action: Sydney Esports Showcase Photo Album

The energy, the passion, the victories! Find yourself in the crowd and check out all the highlights from the weekend below, the full photo album is available at www.facebook.com/auesportsleague

An Interactive Zone Full of Energy

Away from the main stage, the AEL Zone buzzed with activity all weekend. The HyperX and Officeworks Soundwall let players experience pro-level gear, the Indomie Australia zone offered a relaxed space for casual gaming and noodles, and the AGON by AOC play wall stunned attendees with its crystal-clear displays and silky-smooth gameplay.

Every corner of the space was alive with laughter, competition, and discovery proving once again why the AEL Zone remains a highlight of every Oz Comic-Con stop.

A Heartfelt Thank You

A massive thank you to all the players, students, teachers, and university clubs who made the Sydney showcase a success. Your skill and enthusiasm continue to drive the growth of esports in Australia.

We also extend our deepest gratitude to our partners HyperX, Officeworks, AGON by AOC, and Indomie Australia for their ongoing support and for helping us deliver these amazing interactive experiences.

A special thank you to AMD and HP Omen for providing the high-end gaming PC’s powering the esports stage and enusring our student competitors enjoyed the highest in gaming quality.

And of course, a huge thank you to the Oz Comic-Con team for hosting another fantastic event.

Oct 22

Love0

The Australian Esports League’s High School Cup Returns for Term 4!

By AEL DEV News, Schools

The Australian Esports League’s (AEL) High School Cup is back for Term 4 2025, giving schools across Australia one more chance this year to compete in a season packed with excitement, teamwork, and school pride!

After an incredible year of gameplay and competition, Term 4 welcomes both new and returning schools to jump in, form teams, and take on the challenge in Australia’s biggest interschool esports league.

Games on Offer:

Rocket League (3v3) – the fusion of football and rocket-powered cars
Marvel Rivals (5v5) – team-based super-powered chaos
Minecraft: Capture The Flag (5v5) – where teamwork, tactics, and creativity collide
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (1v1) – iconic fighters go head-to-head
Brawlhalla (1v1) – the free-to-play platform brawler with endless depth
Trackmania (Solo Time Trials) – push your reflexes to the limit on custom-built tracks

Key Dates:

Registrations Close: Monday 3 November 2025
Competition Starts: Saturday 8 November 2025
Competition Finals: Saturday 13 December 2025

Matches are held every Saturday online, with schools seeded into balanced divisions to ensure fair and exciting matchups. Over six weeks, teams will rise through the ranks to determine the ultimate division champions for Term 4!

Why Get Involved?

Build school spirit through team competition
Develop digital literacy, communication, and leadership
Experience structured, competitive esports in a safe and inclusive environment
Earn recognition for your school in Australia’s leading interschool league

How to Join:

Schools can register teams via our website. Whether you’re a returning school or brand new to esports, we welcome you to be part of Australia’s leading interschool competition.

👉 Register here: https://ael.org.au/hs

Reach out to the AEL team at schools@ael.org.au for any further assistance.

We look forwad to the last season of competition for 2025 being the best one!

Sep 17

Love0

Brisbane Esports Showcase Ignites Oz Comic-Con with Packed Crowds and Thrilling Victories

By AEL DEV Events, News, Schools, University Cup

QUT Respawn dominates the university stage while All Saints Parish, Albany Creek claims victory in a thrilling schools showdown, all within a vibrant AEL Zone that was the talk of the convention.

The Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre was buzzing with competitive energy this past weekend as the Australian Esports League (AEL) delivered an unforgettable showcase at Oz Comic-Con. From thrilling grand finals on the main stage to bustling free-play zones, the AEL Zone was a hub of non-stop action, drawing in massive crowds and highlighting the passion of Australia’s grassroots esports community.

The atmosphere was electric all weekend, with all 100 seats in front of the AEL Esports Stage consistently full, and standing spectators crowding around to catch a glimpse of the action.

QUT Respawn Claims Double Championship in University Showcase

Saturday was a story of domination, with QUT Respawn putting on a masterclass performance to secure the championship title in both VALORANT and Rocket League. The cross-town rivalries were fierce, with teams from Griffith University, Southern Cross University, and the University of Queensland all showcasing incredible skill and teamwork.

The final university standings were:

VALORANT Champions:

1st Place: QUT Respawn
2nd Place: Griffith Esports
3rd Place: SCU Esports

Rocket League Champions:

1st Place: QUT Respawn
2nd Place: Griffith Esports
3rd Place: University of Queensland

Congratulations to QUT for an incredible display, and to all our university competitors for putting on a spectacular show.

All Saints Parish, Albany Creek Conquers the Minecraft Arena

On Sunday, the spotlight turned to the next generation of esports talent. In a tense and strategic Minecraft: Capture The Flag final, students representing All Saints Parish, Albany Creek emerged victorious, showcasing brilliant teamwork to overcome the formidable runners-up from Lockyer District High School. The passion and sportsmanship on display were a testament to the bright future of scholastic esports in the region.

Relive the Action: Brisbane Esports Showcase Photo Album

The energy, the passion, the victories! Find yourself in the crowd and check out all the highlights from the weekend below, the full photo album is available at www.facebook.com/auesportsleague

A Buzz of Activity Beyond the Stage

The excitement wasn’t confined to the main stage. The entire AEL Zone was a hive of activity, packed with attendees eager to get hands-on.

The HyperX and Officeworks Soundwall proved to be a massive hit, with gamers lining up to experience pro-grade audio on our Xbox stations. The Indomie Australia Switch 2 zone was a popular spot to chill, play, and grab some noodles, while the AGON by AOC play wall drew in crowds with its stunning visuals and smooth gameplay.

A Massive Thank You

This incredible weekend would not have been possible without the passion and dedication of so many people.

A huge thank you to all the players, students, teachers, and university clubs who competed with such skill and heart.

Our sincere gratitude goes to our amazing partners: HyperX, Officeworks, AGON by AOC, and Indomie Australia. Your support allows us to create these amazing, interactive experiences for the community.

Thank you to the entire Oz Comic-Con team for being fantastic hosts and putting on an incredible event.

And finally, to every single attendee who watched a match, played a game, or just stopped by to see what was happening – thank you for bringing the energy and making the Brisbane Esports Showcase a roaring success. We can’t wait to see you at the next one!

Jul 23

Love0

Term 3 High School Esports Starts Soon – Register Now and Qualify for Nationals at PAX!

By AEL DEV News, Schools

The Australian Esports League’s High School Cup is back for Term 3 – and this time, it’s your last chance to qualify for the 2025 AEL Nationals!

We’re calling on schools across the country to gear up, squad up, and battle it out in a thrilling season of competition. Term 3 features some of the most exciting titles in student esports – and top teams will earn their shot at representing their school on the national stage.

Matches are held every Saturday with students competing over the internet to face off against their peers from across the country. Students are seeded into divisions for balanced play with the competition taking place over six weeks with an ultimate winner in each division decided on the final week of play.