Free BTEC Level 3 Games Design and Development Course in Dartford. Classes run full-time at The Leigh Academy, over two years. You'll need five or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, including Grade 4 in English Language or Literature and Grade 4 in IT, along with a demonstrable passion for creativity. The course covers the design and development processes behind digital games, giving you both technical and creative skills. You'll work through planning, production, and post-production stages used in the industry. This is a level 3 BTEC games design and development qualification awarded by Pearson Edexcel.
Who this course is for
In BTEC Creative Media Production students learn how to research and analyse Media texts before applying them to their own ideas. Students are given the opportunity to explore the planning processes within the industry and create a practical production with post production techniques such as editing. This is a well rounded course for those who wish to break into the Media industry with experience of all the production processes they need.
Entry requirements
5+ GCSEs 9-4, to include Grade 4 English Language or Literature, Grade 4 in GCSE IT and a demonstratable passion for creativity.
What you will learn
You'll research and analyse digital media and games texts to inform your own creative work.
You'll plan and develop original game concepts using industry-standard processes.
You'll apply design principles to create game environments, characters, and assets.
You'll use development tools and software to build playable game content.
You'll practise post-production techniques, including editing and refinement.
You'll evaluate your own work against industry standards and briefs.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at The Leigh Academy, combining taught input with practical project work. Assessment is assignment-based, as is standard for Pearson BTEC qualifications at this level. You'll build a portfolio of work across the two years, completing units that are marked and graded. There are no written exams for most units. Some units may include externally set tasks assessed by Pearson.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. The Leigh Academy will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Game designer: creating concepts, mechanics, and levels for digital games.
Junior game developer: writing code and building game features in a studio.
3D artist or animator: producing assets and characters for games or film.
UI/UX designer: designing interfaces and player experiences for digital products.
Digital media producer: managing creative projects across games or interactive media.
QA tester: testing games for bugs and playability before release.
What you could study next
Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Games Design or Computing: a Level 4 qualification that takes your skills further and is recognised by universities and employers.
BA (Hons) in Game Design, Game Development, or Computer Science: a degree for those wanting to specialise and move into senior creative or technical roles in the games industry.
Apprenticeship in Software Development or Digital and Technology Solutions: an earn-while-you-learn route into the tech sector.
