Leeds Trinity University challenges students with exclusive escape game

Criminology lecturers put potential students to the test with a specially designed live escape game.

The games challenge teams to solve a series of puzzles in order to find their way out of a locked room in under an hour and have become popular around the globe.

Bethany Sykes, Summer Greaves, Anna Aspinall, and Ryan Lane tackle the escape game set for them at Leeds Trinity University. Pictures: James Hardisty.placeholder image
Bethany Sykes, Summer Greaves, Anna Aspinall, and Ryan Lane tackle the escape game set for them at Leeds Trinity University. Pictures: James Hardisty.

But this one – designed by the team behind Code-X at Leeds Dock – was created exclusively for sixth formers taking part in Leeds Trinity University’s summer programme.

Criminology programme co-ordinator Dr Sarah Barnes said: “It’s about good communication skills, team working, appreciating other people’s skills – things you really need if you get a job in the police or probation service.

Bethany Sykes, Summer Greaves, Anna Aspinall, and Ryan Lane in action.placeholder image
Bethany Sykes, Summer Greaves, Anna Aspinall, and Ryan Lane in action.

“Both sets of students who have done it absolutely loved it. The guys on the second day didn’t actually manage to get out, but they still said it was a lot of fun.”

The challenge was based around a murder mystery scenario, with participants gathering clues for the evidence board as they worked together to find out the killer’s identity.

It was designed by lecturers on the criminology course along with a colleague who also works with Time Games.

The sessions were part of the university’s work with students who are thinking of going on to higher education.

Bethany Sykes and Summer Greaves looking at where the body was found.placeholder image
Bethany Sykes and Summer Greaves looking at where the body was found.

Dr Barnes said: “It’s about giving them an opportunity to see what we offer at Leeds Trinity University, as well as what student life is like.”

The students take part in activities with different departments, get to stay at the Horsforth campus and are invited to social events.

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