Free Level 3 Games, Animation and VFX Skills Course in Westminster. Classes run at Capital City College Soho Campus, full-time during the day. This games, animation and VFX skills qualification runs for 36 weeks and covers the skills and knowledge the industry needs, using industry-standard equipment including animation studios, a green screen studio, and a virtual production suite. The course is designed by NextGen and validated by AIM Qualifications. You'll need four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths, or an equivalent Level 2 qualification at Merit, plus Functional Skills in English and Maths at Level 2. All applicants have an interview before starting.
Who this course is for
This course will be delivered at the newly refurbished Soho centre, in the heart of London's Digital and Creative economy. This is an exciting new addition to Capital City College.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 StudioAnimation StudioVirtual Production SuiteEdit, Grade, Dub and Voice-Over StudioPodcast StudioTV Studio and Control RoomLecture TheatreComprehensively Equipped Alienware Animation StudiosThe 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 has been designed by NextGen and validated by AIM Awards to give you skills and knowledge for the workplace, working in association with award-winning employers including Sony, Microsoft, Ubisoft, Blue Zoo, Centroid, Double Negative, Framestore, MPC, and The Imaginarium.NextGen Skills Academy is an organisation set up by the Government and the Games, Animation and VFX industries to directly address skills gaps and shortages in these sectors.These are fast-moving industries, so NextGen collaborates with industry experts to make sure their vocational qualifications for young people are up-to-date and relevant. They do this through working with an Employer Steering Group and Further Education to support the delivery of a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Games, Animation and VFX Skills, accredited by AIM Awards.The Games, Animation and VFX sectors are academically stretched but vocationally focused, which is why employers supported the creation of NextGen and continue to work closely with them. This course embodies the fundamental
Entry requirements
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.
What you will learn
You'll develop skills in games design, animation, and visual effects production.
You'll work with industry-standard software and equipment used in professional studios.
You'll create animation and VFX content using dedicated animation studios and a virtual production suite.
You'll learn techniques for editing, grading, and post-production.
You'll build knowledge of the creative and digital industries and how they operate.
You'll produce a portfolio of work that demonstrates your skills to employers.
How you will learn
You'll learn through practical, studio-based sessions using professional equipment at the Soho Campus. Learning is hands-on, working in spaces that include animation studios, a green screen studio, a virtual production suite, and edit and grade suites. Assessment is through coursework and practical projects that reflect real industry tasks. All applicants have an interview before the course begins to confirm it is the right fit.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Capital City College Soho Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Animator. Create characters and motion for games, film, or TV.
VFX artist. Produce visual effects for film, TV, and digital media.
Graphic and multimedia designer. Design visuals across digital platforms.
Games designer. Develop concepts and assets for video games.
Motion graphics artist. Create animated graphics for broadcast and online content.
3D artist. Build environments and characters for games and film.
Digital content creator. Produce creative content for studios and agencies.
What you could study next
Level 4 or Level 5 Higher National Certificate or Diploma in Games Design, Animation, or Digital Media. A natural next step if you want to specialise further or move into higher-level roles.
A degree in Animation, Games Design, or Visual Effects at a university. Many universities accept this Level 3 Diploma as part of their entry requirements.
Industry short courses in specific software such as Unreal Engine, Maya, or Adobe Creative Suite to build on your technical skills.