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Level 3 Extended Diploma in Games, Animation & VFX Skills: NextGen

at Sunderland College, Sunderland · college

Level 3Applied and BTECDiploma1 hourFull time

What the college says

Our region boasts some of the most innovative technology companies in the UK, particularly in the fast-paced games, animation, and VFX industries. Join us at Hartlepool Sixth Form College, where we can guide you in becoming a part of this digital revolution! Hartlepool Sixth Form College is one of only 18 UK colleges approved to deliver the award-winning NextGen Skills Academy qualification. Developed in partnership with industry leaders, this qualification equips you with the essential skills to join the next generation of leading talent in the games, animation and VFX industries. As the only industry backed course of its kind, it has been created in collaboration with employers, including Blue Zoo, Industrial Light & Magic, Framestore, DNEG, Playground Games, Sony Interactive Entertainment Europe, Ubisoft and Centroid 3D. The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Games, Animation, and VFX Skills is designed to ensure that young talents are industry-ready, blending a keen awareness of industry practices with essential skills. The course provides students with a solid foundation in art, design, maths, and computing skills�attributes highly sought-after within the industry. Crafted for those keen on game development, our programme focuses on hands-on activities, where theory meets practice head-on. Engage with employer-assigned projects, receive genuine industry feedback, and gain valuable remote work experience with industry leaders as essential components of your learning journey. Aim

What you need to get on

You will need 5 GCSEs at grade 4-9, including English Language and Maths, plus IT skills, self-motivation and a passion for computer games, animation and VFX. Additionally, you should have great creativity and imagination, be able to express your ideas, and be a logical problem-solver. You also need to be able to work under pressure, meet deadlines, work well in teams, and have an interest in the future of technology.

How you are assessed

One subject in depth, assessed largely through coursework and projects.

What this level means

The A-level-equivalent step, and what universities and employers ask for.

Is it open to 16 to 18 year olds?

Approved for 16 to 18 study on the government's Section 96 list.

Where it runs

  • Hartlepool Sixth Form

    Brinkburn Blakelock Road, Hartlepool, TS25 5PF

    DaytimeClassroom based
    Check the journey

Start dates

  • 1 September 2026 · Hartlepool

Who else teaches this exact qualification

Same qualification, different college. Entry requirements and how it is taught can differ a lot between them, which is the whole reason to compare.