Local students score gaming industry experience with Ipswich games studio

The big picture: The internships offered by Alarming Ladder aim to boost students' skills and employability in the UK's £7 billion gaming industry.

Key details:

• Alarming Ladder was founded by Dan Wiltshire, 23, a University of Suffolk graduate, along with several other UoS graduates

• Over 20 Suffolk New College  students worked on "Wrestler Rush", a first-person shoot-em-up wrestling game set to launch in 2026

• The internship included creating ideas, artwork and promotional content

• Participants received industry talks, certificates, and networking opportunities

Why it matters: The programme connects local students with real-world experience in a competitive and growing field.

What they're saying: Dan Wiltshire, founder of Alarming Ladder: "Long term [I hope] to continue to make games, put them out, reinvest in the local area and help other young people gain careers in gaming."

Julian Hasson, Games Arts student: "Working with Alarming Ladder has allowed me to experience the industry, learn valuable skills and connect with the local game scene."

Nick Thomas, Games Development Lecturer at the University of Suffolk: "We are thrilled to see the Alarming Ladder graduates go on to have such great success since graduating from the University of Suffolk."

The bottom line: This initiative demonstrates how local companies can play a crucial role in developing talent and fostering growth in Ipswich's tech sector.