Local Graduate Wins National Award in Games Development

Former Leeds City College student recognised for outstanding achievement

Larissa Radka, a former student of Leeds City College, has been named the 2025 TIGA BTEC Learner of the Year, a national award recognising excellence in games development education. Larissa completed her Level 3 Games Development course at the college in 2025 and has since gained attention for her skills and dedication to the field.

Early interest in gaming leads to career ambition

Larissa’s passion for gaming began during her primary school years. She was particularly inspired by the technical advancements in games during the 2010s, citing the game Batman: Arkham City as a pivotal influence that sparked her desire to contribute to the industry.

Her enrolment in the Level 3 Games Development course at Leeds City College allowed her to explore various aspects of game creation, including animation, narrative, sound design, and 3D modelling, which she now favours as her primary method.

Developing skills through teamwork and challenges

During her second year, Larissa took on the role of programmer for a team project despite having limited prior experience in programming. The project was successful and was showcased at the Sheffield Game Republic Student Showcase, where it was presented to industry professionals.

Larissa credits the support of her peers and tutors, particularly her course leader Peter Mitchell, for helping her develop both technical skills and teamwork abilities. Peter Mitchell described her as a standout student whose projects attracted attention from game developers.

Advice for aspiring game developers

• Stay curious and open-minded
• Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth
• Enjoy the creative process and persist through difficulties

Larissa emphasises the importance of self-motivation and continuous creation in the field of game development, encouraging newcomers to maintain their enthusiasm and resilience.