Year 10 Students Tackle the Realities of Gambling Addiction ( Published: 27/03/2026)

In a hard-hitting Personal Development session, Year 10 students took a deep dive into the science and psychology behind gambling.

Planned and delivered by Mr Berne, Head of Digital Communications, the workshop shed a light on the hidden dangers of an industry that is increasingly targeting young people through digital platforms and gaming.

Understanding the Science

The session, titled ‘How Gambling Hooks the Brain,’ moved beyond simple warnings to explain the biological ‘why.’ Students explored how the brain’s reward system reacts to the thrill of a bet, specifically focusing on:

Dopamine Surges – how winning triggers the same chemical pathways in the brain as drug and alcohol addiction
Variable Reward Schedules – why unpredictable wins are the most addictive form of psychological reinforcement
The ‘Near Miss’ Trap – learning how ‘almost winning’ is engineered by gaming companies to keep players engaged

Real-World Connections

A key highlight of the lesson was the discussion on Loot Boxes in popular video games. By linking traditional gambling mechanics to the games students play every day, Mr. Berne helped the cohort recognize that ‘gaming’ and ‘gambling’ often share a very thin line.

It’s about giving our students the ‘mental armour’ they need. If they understand how these systems are designed to manipulate them, they are much better equipped to make informed, safe choices in the future.
Mr Berne, Head of Digital Communications

Looking Ahead

This session forms a vital part of our Personal Development curriculum, ensuring our students leave TEMA not just with academic qualifications, but with the life skills and awareness to navigate the modern world safely.

If you or someone you know has been affected by the issues discussed here, please reach out to your Head of Year or visit the GambleAware website for support.