AIM Level 3 Diploma Games, Animation and VFX Skills

Key Facts

Level: 3

Attendance: Full Time (FT)

Duration: 2 Years

Course Code: HFH0061

Start Date: August 2027

Awarding Body: AIM Qualications

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Code: HFH0061
Please note, course costs shown are per year.

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NextGen Skills Academy (or NextGen for short) is an organisation set up by 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 delivery of a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Games, Animation and VFX Skills, accredited by AIM Awards. Their collaboration with AIM Awards has ensured that assessment methodology is aligned to industry standards and practice. This joined up approach has also produced two VFX Apprenticeship standards with a Games standard currently in development, which would be ideal progression routes for graduating NextGen students.

Features and Benefits

NextGen hold an inaugural showcase of graduate students’ work. Attended by employers from world renowned games design, animation and VFX studios.

NextGen Logo

Course Content

The Games, Animation and VFX sectors are academically stretching but vocationally focused, which is why employers supported the creation of NextGen and continue to work closely with them. The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Games, Animation and VFX Skills embodies the fundamental skills and knowledge identified as necessary for employment in these industries. It was developed in 2015 by NextGen with industry collaboration from Sony Interactive Entertainment Europe, Microsoft, Ubisoft Reflections, The Imaginarium, Blue Zoo, Framestore, Double Negative, Centroid and MPC. NextGen are always expanding and have since added Creative Assembly and Playground Games to their roster of supporters.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirement is 5 GCSE including Maths and English at grade 4 and above or their BTEC Level 2 in Media / Games including their Maths and English.

Five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, including English and Maths,or
BTEC Level 2 in Media/Games including English and Maths at C/4 or equivalent.

Progression Opportunities

All NextGen courses are practical, applied and relevant, and they include real-world challenges and feedback from industry. NextGen students become the next generation of creators, whether their next steps are in to an apprenticeship or vocational higher education they have a solid base of technical skills allied to practical teamwork, communication and iteration experience.

Whilst every effort is made to ensure that the information contained on this website is correct, the College accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Please note that details are subject to change without notice with regard to the provision of courses, course times and dates and the fees and charges levied.