Barnsley College recognised as a ‘Centre of Excellence’ by the Games, Animation and VFX Industries as they join NextGen Skills Academy

NextGen Skills Academy is pleased to announce that we are working with Barnsley College to offer students in South Yorkshire the AIM Qualifications Level 3 Extended Diploma in Games, Animation and VFX Skills from September 2021.

NextGen students will be studying in Barnsley College’s SciTech Digital Innovation Hub which offers industry-standard, high-spec technology and facilities that reflect the work environment. The outstanding, passionate staff on the course are always striving for excellence and this positive culture has a real impact on the aspirations of students, studying at Barnsley College helps to inspire learners and transform their lives.

Marcia Deakin, Co-Founder of NextGen Skills Academy, said:

“NextGen, along with our Employer Steering Group, is very proud to welcome Barnsley College to the NextGen Education Network. The employers were particularly impressed by, and remarked on, the community feel of the college, and the commitment to students and their progression.
Following an application process with our industry partners and the college’s Senior Management Team, tutors and students, we’re happy to say that Barnsley College has been recognised as a Centre of Excellence by some of the biggest employers in the UK’s Creative Industries. We look forward to working with the team there to educate and inspire the next generation of leading digital talent in South Yorkshire.”

Jonathan Dobson, Course Leader for Games Development/Games, Animation and VFX at Barnsley College, said:

“We are very excited and privileged to be delivering the Games, Animation and VFX course at Barnsley College and to be working with NextGen in this venture.  
“This course will allow our students to learn the skills and techniques that will afford them the best opportunities to progress to university and into the games, animation and visual effects industries. We are looking forward to seeing our students develop through industry led talks, briefs, guest lectures and feedback, and for them to be a part of this amazing experience.”

Andy Coxon, Director of Business Engagement, AIM Qualifications and Assessment said:

“We are really pleased to welcome a new centre to the AIM and NextGen families: Barnsley College, shortlisted for this year’s TES ‘FE College of the year’ award (2021), is now an AIM approved centre. Learners will be able to register on the AIM Qualification Level 3 Extended Diploma in Games, Animation and VFX Skills – our award-winning qualification designed and delivered in partnership with industry experts. This unique Level 3 qualification is now seen as industry-leading and is the qualification of choice for many colleges and training providers across the UK.”

Barnsley College are taking applications now to start the AIM Qualifications Level 3 Extended Diploma in Games, Animation and VFX Skills in September 2021. For more details and to start your application visit: NextGen Skills Academy at Barnsley College

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