A Level Animation

Animators communicate their ideas by breathing life into drawings, captured images, designs and objects. They use these to communicate their ideas and engage an audience in a language that is understood by all. Motion narrative is used widely in TV, cinema and online for entertainment, education, information and advertising.

Lessons are taught and supported by the award-winning animator Peter Lang, who has a long history in the animation industry having made countless films and videos for broadcast TV.

Aims

  • To take risks with their work and ideas
  • To become independent learners and thinkers
  • To solve problems
  • To learn from their mistakes and constructive criticism
  • To learn how to communicate and produce personal, meaningful, original and creative artwork

Syllabus - Edexcel 9PY0

Animation A level students become familiar with the techniques, principles and skills that open up the world of animation. They will discover how animation first begun and learn about how it is practised today by studying the work of important animators from all over the world. By studying, recreating and building upon the work of past masters, students learn to create the illusion of motion – using time, sound and form to bring images, ideas and stories to life. Both traditional media as well as new technologies are used to assemble meaningful narratives.

Students learn how to use 2D/3D stop motion facilities as well as a vast array of digital programmes including the Adobe Suite CC (Photoshop, Illustrator, PremierePro, AfterEffects and Animate), AnimeStudioPro, 3D Max and Maya. There is a standalone animation studio and a separate computer suite for students to use when working on their own projects. A Level students can also use these spaces during their free time.

Extra-Curricular Activities 

  • Visits from current animators working across the industry
  • Attend the annual Annecy International Animated Film Festival and Market (Mifa) which is a major international event for around 12,000 industry professionals
  • University portfolio preparation and interview practise