ONE of the country’s oldest university computer schools celebrates its 50th year.

Teesside University’s School of Computing marked its 50th anniversary with a large celebration involving more than 100 staff, student ambassadors and alumni, including retired staff.

The School of Computing was founded in 1966, as part of what was then Constantine College, to serve growing demand for graduates to work in the embryonic computer and digital industries.

In the last 50 years, former students from the School of Computing have worked for nearly every major technology company as well as Hollywood studios.

Many graduates have also gone on to found their own technology businesses and provide employment to future Teesside students.

Teesside was also the first University to offer ground breaking courses in graphic technology and since then its reputation for animation and visual effects has become world-renowned. It has been ranked as one of the top 20 places to study animation in the world by 3D World magazine.

The School of Computing also organises Animex, the largest festival dedicated to animation and computer games in the UK.

Alison Brown, assistant dean (recruitment and partnerships) who helped organise the event, said: “The longevity and achievements of the School of Computing are a testament to the talent and hard work of our staff and students.

“It was fantastic to invite so many of them to share in this success and an excellent opportunity to showcase the ongoing work of the school and highlight our cutting-edge research.”