Level 3 Games, Animation and VFX Skills Course in Doncaster. Classes run at Doncaster College, full-time during the day. If you're 16 to 18 years old, the course may be free. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply depending on your prior qualifications and circumstances. The course was developed with studios and firms working in games, animation, and visual effects. You'll study for one year, building the technical and creative skills these industries need. To enrol, you'll need at least five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including Maths and English Language or Literature.
Who this course is for
The Level 3 NEXTGEN Games, Animation and VFX Extended Diploma is an award-winning vocational course accredited through AIM Qualifications awarding body. The course is written in collaboration with creative industry firms and industry specialists to address the current skills shortage in the Games, Animation and VFX industries. Industries such as Framestore, DNEG, Blue Zoo Animation, Sold Out, Centroid Motion Capture, Creative Assembly, Ubisoft, Playground Games, Sumo Digital, The Mill and Son
Entry requirements
Minimum of five GCSEs at grades 5/C or above. This must include GCSE Maths AND English Language/Literature. If you have GCSE IT/Computing this will be beneficial as strong IT skills are essential (along with some knowledge of coding).
What you will learn
You'll develop skills in games design, animation, and visual effects production.
You'll learn industry-standard software used in games and animation studios.
You'll explore character design, 3D modelling, and motion capture techniques.
You'll study visual storytelling and how to build assets for games and film.
You'll practise working to industry briefs, as used by professional studios.
You'll build a portfolio of creative work to show to employers or universities.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Doncaster College, with practical project work at the centre of the course. Assessment is through coursework, creative projects, and a portfolio of work you build up across the year. There are no written exams. Your projects are set in line with real industry briefs, so the work you produce reflects what studios and employers expect.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Doncaster College will confirm anything else you need before you start. Strong IT skills are beneficial, and some knowledge of coding will help you get the most from the course.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Junior games designer, working on game mechanics and level design
3D animator, creating character and object animation for games or film
VFX artist, producing visual effects for TV, film, or advertising
Motion capture technician, recording and processing movement data
Games tester, checking builds for studios before release
Junior concept artist, developing visual ideas for games and animation projects
Digital content creator, producing animated or interactive media
What you could study next
A degree in Games Design, Animation, or Visual Effects at university. This Level 3 Diploma is recognised as a route into higher education, and many studios look for degree-level candidates for senior roles.
A degree-level apprenticeship in a creative or digital technology discipline, combining work with structured study.
Specialist short courses in software such as Unreal Engine, Maya, or Houdini to deepen technical skills for a specific role.
