General News
21 May, 2025
Lunchtime activity brings students together
Horsham College is adding a different sort of fun to lunchtimes at the campus as they have partnered with Level Up Gaming to bring table-top, video, and virtual reality games to students.
Over the next three weeks, students can explore Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), Minecraft servers, and TCG battles (Pokémon, One-Piece, Magic: The Gathering).
VET automotive teacher and technology teacher Matt Hobbs has worked closely with the college's wellbeing team to allow students to access this opportunity.
"The idea sparked after I attended a Level-Up Tabletop Collective event at The Station in Horsham, where I connected with Beau," he said.
"We talked about the gaming community in Horsham and the need to create spaces where young people can connect with like-minded peers."
Mr Hobbs said the focus was to create a safe and welcoming space for students.
"Particularly those whose interests, like gaming or tabletop, may not usually be seen in the typical schoolyard scene," he said.
The first session was held on Tuesday, May 6, and Mr Hobbs said there was a 'fantastic' turnout with an estimated number of 200 students coming through the classroom over the lunch break.
"The energy was incredible," he said.
"It’s been inspiring to see the school come alive with students who may not always have a visible community at lunchtime."
Mr Hobbs said the main goal of this activity is to promote student wellbeing by showing that gaming can be inclusive, social and a positive experience and not something isolating.
"Events like this are about more than just games, they’re about belonging, connection, and creating a positive school culture," he said.
Looking ahead, Mr Hobbs said the school wants to establish a dedicated space or club for tabletop and gaming communities to give students a regular opportunity to connect and build friendships.
"We’ll also be looking at future collaborations with Level-Up Gaming and exploring how we can make activities like this a more regular part of school life," he said.
"I’m really grateful to the Wellbeing Team, Level-Up Gaming, and our students for making this such a success."
