School leaver

Start Date: Duration: Level: Study mode: Course Location: Course Type:
September 2 Years Level 3 Full-Time Bede Campus Full-time Vocational Apply Enquire

What’s it all about?

Unleash your creativity in the fast-paced world of gaming, animation, and visual effects! This Level 3 course, shaped by top employers like Sony, Microsoft, and Ubisoft, equips you with essential skills across game design, animation, 3D modelling, and VFX. You’ll work in state-of-the-art studios with cutting-edge tech, including virtual and mixed reality labs, gaining practical experience on real-world projects.
This course doesn’t just teach technical skills it prepares you for a thriving career in the digital media industry, with pathways to higher education or apprenticeships. Sunderland College are one of only 4 colleges approved to deliver the NextGen Skills academy qualification in the UK. Whether you're passionate about creating immersive game worlds or bringing characters to life through animation, this programme provides the perfect launchpad for your future.

You will need 4 GCSEs at grade 4-9 including Maths and English. Or a relevant Level 2 qualification.

Study level Cost Additional fees
16-18 Free You will need to provide your own stationery and you will be given the opportunity to take part in trips and visits.

You will work across our five specialist NextGen studios, each replicating a commercial studio work environment, with the focus on project based learning. You will complete industry based briefs and contribute towards commercial games on Android, iOS, PC

GCSE Maths and English are vital stepping stones for your academic and professional journey. Achieving a good grade in these subjects not only fulfils most college entry requirements but also equips you with essential skills critical in almost every field. Whether you're calculating percentages in business, crafting compelling arguments, or simply managing daily tasks, these core subjects enhance your problem-solving and communication abilities, setting a solid foundation for your future studies and career success. Start your college course with confidence by securing these key qualifications.

Placement opportunities are an integral part of our curriculum, designed to bridge the gap between academic studies and the professional world. These experiences enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real workplace challenges, enhancing their academic learning with practical skills. Tailored to complement your studies, placements are offered in a range of industries, from innovative local startups to leading global corporations.
By actively participating in these structured and supportive environments, students not only observe but also contribute meaningfully to the workings of their chosen field. This hands-on approach boosts confidence and provides a competitive advantage in the job market. The insights and experience gained are often transformative, arming students with the necessary tools for a successful and dynamic career. These opportunities are crafted to ensure you emerge as a well-rounded professional, ready to make significant contributions in your future endeavours.

At Sunderland College our commitment to your future goes beyond the classroom. We are dedicated to providing you with real-world experiences and industry insights that will prepare you not just to enter, but to excel in your chosen field. Here’s how we connect you with the industry:

• Placement Opportunities: Dive into your future career with our hands-on placement opportunities. These are not just work experiences, but gateways to potential employment and invaluable learning. They’re a core part of our courses, offering you a chance to apply academic theories in real-world scenarios.
• Networking Events: Build your professional network early. Our placement and careers fairs are your chance to meet and impress potential employers. These events are designed to help you forge significant industry connections that can enhance your career prospects. Attend talks, engage in discussions, and explore apprenticeship opportunities with employers who are eager to meet fresh talent.
• Expert Insights: Stay ahead of the curve with talks from specialist speakers. These industry leaders share the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the field, giving you the inside track on what to expect and how to thrive.
• Skills Competitions: Showcase your abilities in our exciting skills competitions. Held throughout the academic year, these competitions are not just about winning – they are about learning, growing, and pushing your limits. They offer a fun, competitive environment to enhance what you learn in class and develop essential industry skills.

What’s next?

Upon completing this Level 3 course, students are superbly positioned for further education and career opportunities. Students can advance to university studies or enter higher apprenticeships, leveraging the UCAS points earned.
Direct pathways into the creative industries are also open, with potential roles in game design, animation, and visual effects. Supported by a strong portfolio and real-world project experience, students are equipped to join innovative tech companies or dynamic creative studios, turning their passion for digital creation into a fulfilling career?

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93% of our students have progressed to employment, university or further study

(*Destination data, all students, 2023-24)

Why choose Sunderland College?

94% Overall pass rate for T Levels

2022-23

Top performing college group in the North East for student achievement

NARTS, 16-18 Students, 2024

98% of students said they had the freedom to express themselves

NSS, 2024

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