What is NextGen?
NextGen Skills Academy is a unique employer-led organisation that brings together educators and studios from the Games, Animation, and VFX industries. Developed in partnership with industry giants like Ubisoft, Framestore, DNEG, Blue Zoo, MPC, Microsoft, The Mill, Sony Interactive Entertainment, Centroid 3D, and more, our two-year, full-time college course offers an alternative path for students who aspire to excel beyond traditional A-Levels.
With 15 member colleges across the UK and over 600 enrolled students, we are seeking passionate professionals like you to join us in inspiring and guiding the next generation of creative talent! We are seeking friendly and relatable professionals from all walks of creative life to provide valuable mid-point feedback on our students' remote work experience projects. As an industry volunteer, you have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of these young people.
Volunteering slots normally last one hour and you get to take part in some great projects, such as:
Spaceship Fleet Challenge
Skills: Concept and 3D Modelling
Week A: 9th October 2023 / Week B: 20th November 2023
A 3D modelling challenge where students work in teams to create a fleet of futuristic crafts.
Our ask from industry volunteers: One hour of your time to hop on a video call and tell the students what you think of their work.
Choose Your Own Adventure Challenge
Skills: Programming and Coding
Week commencing: 5th February 2024
A programming and coding challenge where students work in teams to create an old-school text-based adventure or combat cycle.
Our ask from industry volunteers: One hour of your time to hop on a video call and tell the students what you think of their work
Advert Animatic Challenge
Skills: Research, Concept Art, Storyboarding, Animation
March 2024 - Date TBC
Students work in teams to respond to an industry brief, they are challenged to research, concept, and create a short animatic for a new product.
Our ask from industry volunteers: One hour of your time to hop on a video call and tell the students what you think of their work.
How do these feedback sessions work?
At NextGen Skills Academy, our projects span one week each, allowing students ample time to generate ideas and develop their work. Our industry feedback sessions are strategically positioned at the mid-point, ensuring students have substantial progress to showcase while leaving enough time for implementation based on your feedback.
These sessions typically last for an hour and involve 4-5 teams of students presenting their projects to you. A NextGen staff member will be present on every call, facilitating a smooth and collaborative experience.
What are the benefits of volunteering with NextGen:
you will experience a range of benefits, including:
- Making a difference: Inspire and motivate young talents while showcasing the possibilities within the industry.
- Promoting and inspiring diversity: Our students are a diverse mix of young people, and we would like to show them that people like them can succeed in our industries.
- Continuous Professional Development (CPD): Enhance your presentation and communication skills within a friendly environment.
- Networking: Connect with like-minded professionals and expand your industry connections.
- Personal Satisfaction: Witness the growth and progress of young individuals and contribute to their success.
I'm interested in volunteering with NextGen!
That's great news! Simply leave your details below and someone from NextGen will be in touch.
