Develop your creative and technical skills with the industry-led Games, Animation and VFX course — delivered at Big Creative Training in partnership with NextGen Skills Academy. Designed with input from leading studios such as PlayStation, Framestore, and Blue Zoo, this Level 3 diploma provides hands-on experience and professional insight to prepare you for progression into university, apprenticeships, or employment in the screen industries.
Course Overview
Over two years, you’ll work on real studio briefs, collaborate with peers, and build an impressive portfolio guided by industry professionals. With no course fees and all equipment provided, this programme gives you everything you need to develop your skills and launch a successful career in the digital creative sector.
What You'll Learn
- Game design principles and programming fundamentals
- 2D and 3D animation using industry-standard software and techniques
- 3D modelling, texturing, and environment creation for games and film
- Concept art, storyboarding, and visual development for interactive media
- VFX principles including compositing, simulation, and motion graphics
- Project management, production pipelines, and effective teamwork
- Sound design and image editing for immersive media experiences
- Applied maths and logic for gameplay design and interactive systems
You’ll work on industry briefs and team-based final projects that mirror real studio environments, developing collaboration, problem-solving, and project management skills essential for a career in software development.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8fY3QOFkwM
COURSE VIDEO & CAREER PATHS
Games or App Designer
UX DESIGNER
3D Modeller
Software Developer
VFX Artist or Animator
University Progression
Facilities
- Esports arena with competition gaming PCs
- Recreational gaming areas with console gaming
- High-spec learning suites with gaming-spec PCs
- Access to Blender, Unreal Engine, Unity, Photoshop and Krita
- Dedicated project zones for collaborative and solo builds
- Guest lectures and workshops from studios like Dog Studios and Gray Gaming
- Fully supported game jam events
- International exchange trips
Timetable & Qualifications
- 3-day college week
- NextGen creative and technical classes
- Weekly wellbeing sessions
- Careers and progression support
This course leads to an AIM Level 3 Extended Diploma in Games, Animation and VFX Skills. A Distinction grade is worth up to 168 UCAS tariff points, providing a strong foundation for progression to university, apprenticeships, or careers in the screen and digital industries.
ENTRY CRITERIA
- 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English
- Must be under 19 on 1st September, or under 25 with an EHCP
- A strong interest in digital creativity, games, animation, or VFX
Big Creative Academy has been officially rated Outstanding by OFSTED, reflecting its commitment to educational excellence. Inspectors highlighted the dedication and passion of staff, the use of innovative and engaging teaching methods, and a holistic approach to student development that supports both academic and personal growth.
Student Work
Watch a showreel of NextGen learners’ work, showcasing their creativity and technical skill across games, animation, and VFX projects developed in collaboration with leading industry partners.
From Our Teachers
“At BCT we provide a supportive, all-encompassing and stimulating education for our Animation and NextGen VFX learners. Our syllabus is devised to mirror Industry practice whilst supporting learners to expand their knowledge, digital design and imaginative skills”
Alfred Zekaj, Curriculum Manager for Animation & Games Design Department
Develop talent Transform Lives Create Careers
Step into the screen industries with expert training and hands-on projects through the NextGen course at BCE
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is this course free?
Yes! This course is completely free for students under 19 on 1st September, or under 25 with an EHCP. All software, equipment, and materials are included. There are no hidden fees — even specialist tools and licenses are provided.
What will I actually learn on the course?
This is a highly practical and immersive course designed to prepare you for the games, animation and VFX industries. Over two years, you’ll develop a huge range of creative and technical skills, including:
- 2D & 3D Animation – Learn to animate using keyframes, rigging, and character movement in both 2D and 3D environments.
- Game Design – Understand the core of game mechanics, user interaction, level design, and game logic.
- 3D Modelling & Texturing – Build characters, environments, props and assets using tools like Maya, Blender, or ZBrush.
- Visual Effects (VFX) – Gain insight into compositing, digital effects, and motion graphics for film and games.
- Programming & Interactivity – Explore logic-based game design and learn the foundations of scripting for gameplay.
- Concept Art & Storyboarding – Develop visual storytelling skills and pre-production design workflows.
- Sound & Image Integration – Learn how to create, source, and manipulate media to enhance digital experiences.
- Project Management – Work as a team on long-term briefs using production pipelines, deadlines, and feedback cycles.
- Portfolio Building – Complete work ready for university and industry submission, including for the national NextGen Graduate Showcase.
What kind of projects will I work on?
You’ll take on a mix of individual and group projects that mirror real industry briefs — from designing game levels and animating scenes to building a playable prototype or creating a short animated film. Each year, students have the opportunity to submit their final project to the national NextGen Graduate Showcase, attended by universities and employers from across the UK. You’ll build a professional portfolio along the way to help with job or university applications.
What kind of careers can this course lead to?
This course gives you access to a wide range of creative careers, including:
- Games Designer or Developer
- 2D/3D Animator or Rigger
- VFX Artist or Motion Graphics Designer
- Concept Artist or Storyboard Artist
- 3D Modeller, Texture Artist or Environment Artist
- UI/UX Designer or Games Tester
- Production Assistant or Creative Technologist
You can also progress to degrees in Games Art, VFX, Animation, Game Development, or Digital Media at universities across the UK.
How is this course connected to the industry?
NextGen Skills Academy is backed by top employers like PlayStation, Framestore, Creative Assembly and Blue Zoo. The course content is designed by these companies and updated regularly to reflect industry standards. Students receive live feedback on projects from professionals, attend online masterclasses, and are connected to industry events through exclusive access and showcases.
What equipment and software will I use?
You’ll work with high-performance PCs and industry-standard tools like Maya, Blender, Adobe Creative Cloud, Unity, Unreal Engine, and more. You’ll also have access to drawing tablets, dual monitors, studio headsets, and all the tech needed to create animation, games and VFX content at a professional level.
How does the course support wellbeing?
Wellbeing is integrated into the course through pastoral support, weekly check-ins, and 1:1 tutorials. The course culture encourages collaboration, inclusivity, and creative risk-taking — building confidence alongside technical skill. You’ll also receive support with time management, resilience, and developing a healthy approach to digital workspaces.
What’s the timetable like?
You’ll study 3 days per week at BCE’s Digital Futures Campus, including:
- NextGen technical and creative units
- Project-based work with critiques and feedback
- Wellbeing and personal development sessions
- English or Maths resits if required
What are the entry requirements?
- 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English
- Must be under 19 on 1st September, or under 25 with an EHCP
- No experience required — just a strong interest in games, animation, or digital creativity
- A portfolio or creative work is useful, but not essential at interview
What if I don’t know whether to focus on games, animation or VFX?
That’s absolutely fine — the course is designed to let you try everything. You’ll explore all three specialisms in your first year and begin to shape your strengths and interests through projects and feedback. By year two, you’ll have a better idea of where your passion lies — and a portfolio to support it.