Game Character Design and Animation for 11 to 15 Year Olds Short Course

Course description

In this exciting five-day course, students will look at popular characters in computer games and cartoons - such as Roblox, Toca Life, Fortnite, Sonic the Hedgehog and Cupheads, as well as Bugs Bunny and Mister Magoo.

Under the tuition of an experienced 2D Animator, you will experiment with designing and illustrating a character of your own. Using traditional (paper) animation techniques at the core of principles used today, you will learn how to animate your character and bring it to life.

As well as learning about Animation/Cartoon History, Shape Theory in Character Design and other considerations central to character design, students will also complete an animated walk cycle (loop) of their character, learning first-hand about animating traditionally.

Who should attend?

This course is designed for 11 to 15 year olds with an interest in character design, cartoon and animation more broadly. Students should have an interest in drawing but practical experience of animation is not required.

Level: Beginners

Course outcomes

By the end of the course you will:

• Have developed confidence in your capabilities
• Have an understanding of character design drawn animation principles and processes such as character turnarounds/model sheets, pose sheets, incorporating/combining geometric shapes in design, rough sketches, construction lines, place and trace, ‘key’ drawings and inbetweening
• Have an idea of how you may input your designs into computer software
  
• Have produced work which may be useful for building a portfolio to pursue future study or creative development

Clear, easy to understand lessons:

• Our tutors will explain things in easy to understand, accessible English. If they need to use any special terminology they will make sure they explain what they mean.
• New methods will be shown to students through live demonstrations, in a way that’s clear and easy to understand.

Experience life on campus

• Network and share ideas with students from across the globe
• Access the technology and materials relevant to your discipline
• Shop in our college shops for any materials you might need
• Ask questions of your tutor in real time
• Receive feedback and critique on your assignments
• Experience the many sights of London on your down time

Please note learners under 16 years of age are not allowed to leave the site during the day. There is a canteen onsite, with a wide range of meals and snacks available. Alternatively you may wish to bring a packed lunch with you. There are microwaves available to re heat food if you wish and if you bring a reusable water bottle with you there are a number of places to refill it.

Digital Credentials (badges and certificates)

Students will receive a UAL Short Courses digital badge and certificate on completion of the course. Digital credentials are a great way to celebrate your accomplishments and stand out from the crowd. Find out more about our digital badges and credentials.

UAL International Summer School

Can’t see any available dates for this course? For a similar experience we recommend booking onto UAL International Summer School for 11 to 15 Year Olds Short Course.