Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animation and Visual Effects

Applications Open - Monday 2nd November 2026

Applications Close - Open all year

How to Apply – Please apply through KentChoices and use your KentChoices login which your school should provide

PLEASE NOTE - Popular courses can fill up quickly so apply early to avoid disappointment

If you have any queries regarding the courses, please contact EKC Canterbury College

You can make up to 5 applications to Colleges within the EKC Group, that is:

• EKC Ashford College
• EKC Broadstairs College*
• EKC Canterbury College*
• EKC Dover College
• EKC Folkestone College*
• EKC Sheppey College

*Junior Colleges exist in these locations.

Please only add one course or T Level per application, except for A Levels at EKC Canterbury College, where up to 4 A Level courses can be added per application. At your interview, you and the tutors can discuss the best level and courses in order for you to progress.

Step into the world of animation and visual effects and start building the creative future you want. If you enjoy experimenting, taking creative risks and you’d like to specialise in web design and interactive media, this two-year course could be perfect for you. The animation and visual effects industries are growing and evolving, opening up exciting opportunities across web, film, games, and digital media. This course helps you build the skills, confidence, and portfolio you need to stand out. Whether you aim to work professionally or continue your studies, you’ll leave ready to take your next step in a creative career.

This course is designed for aspiring artists and creatives aiming to learn and explore animation through a foundation in visual effects and production. The programme emphasises hands-on learning through practical workshops, live briefs across drawn, digital, 3D and mixed media practices. You will explore the fundamentals of animation and visual effects for the animation industry, film, games design and more. A range of processes and techniques will be taught, including: • Concept art • Character design • Animation (digital and traditional techniques) • 3D modelling • Audio design • Interactive design Developing an understanding of key concepts in animation is also a key part of the course, alongside building skills in a range of industry standard programs. Software you'll use includes: • Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects) • Blender 3D • Audacity • GameMaker Studio You will gain unique industry insight, mentorship and professional exposure as you build an impressive portfolio of work, ready to begin your career in the fast-evolving creative industries.

You will learn through practical lessons in our digital studios and be assessed through multiple projects that will build your creative skills. Throughout the course you will build a portfolio of work that will be graded by external assessors, providing you with detailed feedback to help you improve your skills and knowledge. This is a highly supportive course, designed to guide your progress with clear, practical advice so you can continue building your confidence.

To study at Level 3, you will need an average entry score of 5.0 from your best 6 GCSE subjects, ideally including English and Maths. You will also be required to show a portfolio of work when you apply. In instances where little or no portfolio and/or performance experience is shown, we will guide you towards the best course to help you build your portfolio and develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed at higher levels. This study programme is designed to help you move quickly toward advanced jobs, higher education, or apprenticeship opportunities if you know what you want to do next and meet the entry requirements needed for success. Achieving a Level 3 qualification will improve your future earning potential and career choices. It also allows you to progress to Higher Education, Higher Apprenticeships, and Degree Apprenticeships. These can lead to roles like Advanced Technician or Skilled Supervisor at Level 3, and eventually to management or professional status as you continue your studies.

By the end of your course, you’ll be ready to take your first steps into the world of animation and visual effects. This course opens the door to a range of creative careers, including: • Animation • Visual effects (VFX) • Games design • Film and TV production • Digital media • Motion graphics A wide range of progression opportunities will be available to you, including moving on to university, starting a higher-level apprenticeship or stepping into an entry-level role within the creative industries. Many of our Level 3 learners have gone on to study or work within the animation, VFX and wider creative sector.