top 25 animation programs in the world
Since opening our doors in 2000, The Animation School has established itself as the leading source of specialist animation education in South Africa and ranked 10th in the world by Animation Career Review website 2024.
The Animation School has recently been ranked in the top 25 animation training programs in the world by the animation career review, with world-class campuses in Cape Town and Johannesburg, South Africa. Offering a three-year full-time Diploma in Digital Animation as well as intensive short courses in the field of animation. Our students consistently win top honors at award ceremonies across the globe and graduates have been employed by leading studios worldwide.
We have a laser-sharp focus on animation while drawing on local and international knowledge and experience from related sectors such as art, design, and film. This focus gives our students a competitive advantage because they can refine and develop the skills which the animation industry specifically seeks.
Our Vision
Our vision is to be internationally recognised as a leading provider of higher education in the field of animation by producing award-winning graduates who are employed by top companies worldwide.
Our Mission
Our mission is to develop a pool of creative talent with the knowledge, skills and motivation to be highly competitive in the global animation industry while maintaining a culture of respect, integrity and professionalism.
Our Values
We believe that it is essential to always act with integrity. We believe that all our students can create award-winning work. We believe that we can achieve more together. We believe in the end we must still have fun.
The Animation School is a proud member of the Honoris United Universities network. Honoris United Universities is the first and largest pan-African private higher education network committed to transforming lives through relevant education for lifetime success.
Gain a competitive advantage in the industry
For almost two decades we have helped to grow the animation industry in South Africa by educating young talent, who have gone on to become leaders in this highly competitive sector. The Animation School graduates are sought after by employers and we currently boast an impressive graduate employment rate of 70-80%. We assist students to refine their show reel and create a strong online presence as well as to secure internships and employment.
Be exposed to international animation experts
We have established a staff exchange programme with the Emile Cohl School in Lyons, France, in order to share expertise across continents and develop the knowledge and skills of students and staff. Alexandre Heboyen, a Gobelines alum and well-known French director who conceptualized and directed Mune: guardian of the Galaxy, regularly visits our school from Paris to give master classes. He has extensive experience in character animation, including on Monsters vs. Aliens, Kung Fu Panda and Azur & Asmar.
Gain access to world class facilities
Students have 24-hour access to professional facilities equipped with high- performance computers, unlimited internet access for research and leading software. We also offer access to a library, study areas, meeting rooms, canteen and pause areas so that our students have safe and enjoyable spaces to learn and connect with other students and staff.
Develop cutting edge knowledge and skills in 2D and 3D animation
We review the programme on a regular basis to ensure that our courses remain current and relevant. We keep abreast of trends and developments within the industry by conducting research and calling on the expertise of employers, alumni, animation professionals and software developers.
Gain exposure at local and international animation festivals
We submit qualifying student work to local and international animation festivals. Students and graduates of The Animation School have won prestigious local and international awards. Check out our award-winning student work.
Be prepared to meet the current and future demands of the animation industry
Students gain experience completing solo as well as team productions in 2D and 3D animation. Graduate assessments are externally examined by a panel of animation experts and benchmarked against industry standards. Students will develop strong generalist skills as well as specialize in an area of interest.
Receive personal attention and one-on-one support
We deliberately keep our classes small so that lecturers can develop an understanding of the learning needs and specific interests of each student. We believe that one-on-one support fosters trust, builds student confidence and facilitates development of the knowledge and skills students need to achieve their best.
Receive guidance and be mentored by experienced and committed lecturers
We only appoint academic staff who have excelled in the animation industry and are committed to the growth and development of our students. Our lecturers keep abreast of developments within the sector by attending festivals, furthering their studies as well as completing freelance animation work. We involve industry experts in giving lectures, workshops, seminars and feedback on student work throughout the programme.
Receive an accredited and internationally recognised qualification
We are ranked in the top 100 animation schools in the world. Our Diploma in Digital Animation is recognised by foreign accreditation bodies. We implement a rigorous quality assurance system to ensure that we meet our own internal quality objectives and maintain our registration and accreditation status.
