Year 8 Animation Workshop

Posted: 29th January 2025

Our Year 8 students recently had the incredible opportunity to take part in a hands-on animation workshop led by industry professionals. The event was an exciting chance for students to delve into the world of animation, learning from two experts who have made their mark in the industry.

A Masterclass with Laura Page
We were thrilled to welcome back our Bold girl, Laura Page, a talented animator and recent Animation graduate from UWE. Laura’s session was both engaging and insightful, as she shared her creative journey and expertise with our budding animators. Laura’s recent success includes her short film, Skogg and the Fireflies, which was shortlisted for the British Short Film Awards. Through interactive exercises and demonstrations, Laura encouraged students to experiment with storytelling and animation techniques, sparking their imagination and enthusiasm.

Industry Insights from Andrew Schlussel
Adding to the excitement of the day, students had the privilege of hearing from Andrew Schlussel, Senior Director of Training and Development at DNEG Animation. With an impressive career spanning Netflix Animation, DreamWorks, and Pixar, Andrew has contributed to major productions, including Garfield. His talk provided invaluable insights into the animation industry, from the creative process to the technical skills required for success. Students were captivated by his experiences and advice, gaining a deeper understanding of the world of animation.

Bringing Creativity to Life
Throughout the workshop, our Year 8 students displayed remarkable creativity and enthusiasm, fully immersing themselves in the activities. Whether sketching storyboards, experimenting with animation techniques, or absorbing the wisdom of industry experts, they embraced the opportunity to learn and explore.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Laura Page and Andrew Schlussel for sharing their knowledge and inspiring the next generation of animators. This unforgettable workshop has undoubtedly sparked new passions and possibilities for our students, and we look forward to seeing their creative journeys unfold!