At The Animation School, the third-year film project marks the culmination of the students’ transformative journey—where raw talent evolves into professional artistry.

Over the course of nine months, our students collaborate to create a fully realised animated short film, giving them the opportunity to step beyond the classroom and into the kind of real-world production environment they’ll encounter in the animation industry. This ambitious project isn’t just about showcasing what students have learned—it’s about how they apply that knowledge under real production conditions.

Each team is composed of students who specialise in different areas of the animation pipeline, such as story development, character design, visual development, modelling, rigging, animation, and compositing. By working in these focused roles, they mimic the structure and workflow of professional studios, gaining invaluable experience in collaboration, pipeline management, and creative problem-solving.

The process unfolds across two major phases: pre-production and production.

In the pre-production phase, students pitch their original film concepts, which must include a solid proposal outlining the story, intended audience, and overall direction. Once approved, the team moves into storyboarding, character and environment design, and art direction. They develop concept art to establish tone and visual style—crucial steps in setting the creative foundation for the film.

Next, is the production phase, students bring their vision to life. This is where the characters are modelled, rigged, and animated, the environments are built, and the story is visually realised. Every step—from animation and effects to rendering and final compositing—is completed by the student teams using industry-standard tools and techniques. The process is intense, fast-paced, and incredibly rewarding.

But why is this project so important?

1. Real-World Experience: Students learn to meet deadlines, solve creative challenges, and communicate effectively within a production team—all critical skills in the animation industry.
2. Creative Ownership: Students aren’t just following a brief—they’re creating original stories, designing worlds, and shaping characters. This level of creative autonomy builds confidence and sharpens storytelling instincts.
3. Portfolio Power: The final film serves as a central piece of each student’s professional portfolio, demonstrating both technical skill and the ability to work in a team.
4. Industry Exposure: Selected films are submitted to local and international film festivals. After the festival circuit, they premiere on The Animation School’s official YouTube channel – where they reach audiences worldwide.

The third-year film project at The Animation School is more than an assignment – it’s a launchpad.

It prepares students not only to join the industry but to lead it. Through collaboration, creativity, and an unrelenting drive for excellence, our students move from the classroom to the big screen – ready to make their mark on the world of animation.

To see the incredible talent and creativity our students bring to life, visit The Animation School’s YouTube channel and explore the inspiring short films created by our past graduates.