A group of students showcased their talents during an exhibition held at the University Professional Development Centre in Bury St Edmunds.

The learners – all studying at University Studies at West Suffolk College - created a variety of projects – some for external clients.

They received briefs (from clients) and came up with solutions to these requests.

One such project was based around sustainability for Eastern Education Group and another helped create a virtual reality conflict management concept for people on behalf of a company called Revolve Labs.

Other learners developed games and they were given the chance to discuss their work during a one day tech fest at occasion that was held in the visionary University Studies at West Suffolk College’s XR lab that is situated on Western Way.

Organiser and lecturer of Eastern Education Group is Danny Robertson. He was chuffed with the results of his learners. He said: “It (the exhibition) has been absolutely brilliant, the students have exceeded my expectations, they have big futures ahead of them and I’m really proud.”

Lauren Webb, 19, from near Haverhill is on a video game design degree and attended this event.

Lauren said: “We created a nostalgic and cartoony game. I’ve learnt the need to have attention to detail. Coming here is to pick up more skills which I have done.”

Damien Page, 21, from Bury is on a games design course.

Damien said: “We created a game called Christmas versus Halloween. I’ve learnt the importance of communication.”

Oliver Greenstreet, 21, from Bury is on an Immersive Interactive Entertainment Technology (IIET) degree. He said: “I created a fish flocking simulation as it seemed very interesting. It was outside of my comfort zone. I learned a lot from doing it. I’ve used it as an opportunity to get better at programming. It’s been worthwhile being a student (here). The teachers are very nice. Next up, I want to get a job in IT and do game development as a side hustle. The real dream would be to make an indie game and for it to become popular.” m/f

2 - Oliver Greenstreet showcased his gaming skills that he has gained whilst studying at University Studies in West Suffolk College.jpg

1 - Danny Robertson - a lecturer at University Studies @ West Suffolk College - was proud of his students efforts.jpg

Rob Pease, 19, from Ipswich is also on an IIET course. Rob said: “We created a multi-user experience where two players or more play together. It’s called Space Hoppers. We wanted to get as many features into the game as we could.

“For me, I wanted to try and keep things simple. We are ready to take it to the next step if we wanted. We also learnt about post-production and marketing.

In terms of his future, Rob added: “I currently work at a computer repair shop and I see myself as continuing down a more practical route and a future career in this.

And in terms of studying at University Studies at West Suffolk College, Rob said: “It’s close to home and the teachers are really helpful and I enjoy my time here – it’s been a fun experience.”

Oliver Maryon, 21, from Stowmarket is on a computing a digital technology course. On his project, Oliver said: “We made it as polished as possible.”

In terms of the future he said: “Next up is our final year where we will create another project. Doing this degree, there is a large scope of things I can do in the future.”