Animation and Games Design - Level 3 Extended Diploma

This course will be delivered at the new Centre for Applied Technology in Soho, in the heart of London's Digital and Creative economy. This is an exciting new addition to Westminster Kingsway College, opening in September 2024.

Our bespoke building will provide unparalleled facilities tailored for the creators and innovators of tomorrow, enabling learners to hone their craft on industry-standard equipment and develop the skills that the industry desperately needs.

The centre boasts industry-leading equipment and state-of-the-art training spaces including:

• Green Screen Studio
• Animation Studio
• Virtual Production Suite
• Edit, Grade, Dub and Voice-Over Studio
• Podcast Studio
• TV Studio and Control Room
• Lecture Theatre
• Comprehensively Equipped Alienware Animation Studios

The repurposed Soho Centre will act as a beacon for world-class Creative and Digital sector provision, providing a talent pipeline of qualified and experienced individuals to access the fantastic career opportunities in these sectors.

This course will introduce you to both traditional and digital techniques for the games, animation and VFX industry. You will use current game engine technology, such as Unreal Engine 4, to design 2D and 3D playable games, and draw concept art of characters, environments and objects.

You will learn how to create 3D assets using Maya, 3DS Max and Blender, develop your storytelling skills and apply them to 2D animation projects. You will be at the forefront of new innovative techniques, learning how to generate original ideas to present to the industry. Our King's Cross Centre is fully equipped with the latest state-of-the-art facilities, including high-spec Alienware computer suites, industry software, traditional drawing tools, sound and recording studios, replicating the workplace for your studies.

Extended Diplomas have two one-year programmes. You need to finish the first year before moving on to the second.

This course consists of two separate qualifications. In your first year of study, you will work towards the Level 3 90-Credit Diploma. Following successful completion of this qualification, you will be able to progress to the Extended Diploma. Our Extended Diplomas offer equivalent UCAS points to studying 3 A Levels.

Topics covered can include:

• Research techniques
• Contextual Studies
• Sound Design
• Drawing
• Concept Art
• Animation
• Games Engine Technology
• 3D Modelling

You will need:

• Four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths or an equivalent Level 2 qualification at Merit (and Functional Skills in English and Maths at Level 2/GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 4 or above)

All applicants must have an interview to confirm that the course is suitable for them. We encourage you to bring several examples of your creative work.

The course is assessed throughout the year and with an end-of-course portfolio.

Aged 16-18

If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31st August prior to the start date of your course and you have the legal right to remain in the UK for the duration of your programme then your study with us will be free. Please see here for the documents you will need to show us.

Some courses will have other associated costs, such as for specialist materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support, see here for details.

This course will help you to move on to higher level courses, such as a Bachelor of Arts, or to pursue employment in the animation, Games Design, VFX and Media industry.