With industry support, the Animation Skills Fund is able to deliver effective training and support programmes UK-wide and online.
In 2024/25, the focus is on mid-level progression and the introduction of a range of new programmes.
A new company-focussed programme, Direct to Company Training, offers tailored sessions to production companies through half-day sessions to suit the contributing company’s requirements.
Contact Matt.brothers@screenskills.com to find out more about how to take part.
Make a Move encourages on-the-job training of crew members identified by the production as ready to move up into a more senior role. Up to £10,000 for three individuals will be made available throughout the year with access to Make a Move participants made available to contributing productions.
New entrant initiative, Dream Big!, run by training provider thinkBIGGER!, has been supported by the Children’s TV Skills Fund for two years. For the first time this year, six six-month paid placements in a UK animation production will be made available for candidates. It focuses on attracting underrepresented new entrants to animation and offers practical training, industry masterclasses, personal development skills and mentoring with industry professionals.
Ongoing programmes include flagship new entrant initiative, Animation Trainee Finder where a cohort of of 30 animation trainees, skilled across 2D, 3D, stop motion, art and production, can be placed on contributing productions for between four-40 weeks.
Professional development courses designed to address a specific talent or skill shortage in the animation industry, such as layout artists, are being developed.
In addition, the Animation Skills Fund is working with other ScreenSkills managed Funds to develop new co-funded short courses:
- Neurodivergence and inclusion in the screen industries: leaders and managers
- Mental health awareness for managers
- Deaf awareness training in association with Signpost Productions
- Disability awareness for hirers in association with thinkBIGGER!
- Anti-bullying & harassment training
To see which course are open for application, go to the training and opportunities directory.
For more information about the Animation Skills Fund please email Animation Production Liaison Executive kieran.argo@ScreenSkills.com.