Traditional techniques will also be developed in order to best prepare you for the skills and knowledge required in the animation and illustration industries. You will be introduced to and develop skills in digital drawing by using industry-standard graphics tablets. You will create designs in our dedicated studios, developing your own personal creative voice, while being supported to improve your drawing, design and employability skills. Throughout the course you will be given the opportunity to create: • 2D traditional & digital animations • Commercial illustrations • Stop-motion animations • Storyboarding • Concept art for film, animation & games. • Children’s book illustration • Editorial illustration • Graphic novels/comics You will gain technical experience using industry-standard software, including Photoshop, Animate, and the full Adobe Creative Suite before moving on to 3D modelling using Blender in the second year of the course. You also benefit from a range of enhancements to the course, including life drawing and educational visits to gather first-hand research and experience design in its many forms. Recent trips include Yorkshire Sculpture Park, MIMA and Thought Bubble. Our students progress to a range of institutions to pursue degree-level studying, including Staffordshire University, the University of Hertfordshire, the University of Central Lancashire and the School’s Higher Education campus. There will also be opportunities for excellent industry links and live projects set by professional working designers who will help develop your ideas. The course has a range of industry contacts, including Art Director Domareen Fox, Senior Motion Designer Lucy Rae-Naylor and Creative Directors Ian MacKinnon & Peter Saunders. Students can enjoy a range of professional speakers throughout the year, and will complete live briefs with clients, which provide important professional experience. Recent projects have included an animal welfare charity, children’s charity ‘Changing Futures North East’ and the LGBT charity Hart Gables.