Explore the world of Games Design through a practical, industry-focused course that equips you to design, build, and launch your own games. You’ll gain hands-on experience across every stage of production — from concept art and storytelling to 3D modelling, level design, and gameplay mechanics — developing both your creativity and technical ability through real-world projects.
Course Overview
Whether your passion lies in design, animation, VFX, or game development, you’ll work in a professional environment that mirrors the real games industry. You’ll have access to cutting-edge software, guidance from experienced professionals, and the opportunity to work on live briefs from real studios. By the end, you’ll not only have a strong portfolio but also the confidence and industry insight to turn your creativity into a successful career.
What You'll Learn
- Game concept development and level narrative design
- Concept art and illustration using digital tools
- UI and UX design for games
- VFX for games including rigging, animation and compositing
- 3D modelling, texturing and game environment building
- Game mechanics using Unity, Blender and Unreal Engine
- Understanding the business of video games
You’ll work on industry briefs and team-based final projects that mirror real studio environments, developing collaboration, problem-solving, and project management skills essential for a career in games design.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8fY3QOFkwM
COURSE VIDEO & CAREER PATHS
Games or App Designer
Concept Artist or UI Designer
3D Modeller
Software Developer
VFX Artist or Animator
University Progression
Facilities
- Esports arena with competition gaming PCs
- Recreational gaming areas with console gaming
- High-spec learning suites with gaming-spec PCs
- Access to Blender, Unreal Engine, Unity, Photoshop and Krita
- Dedicated project zones for collaborative and solo builds
- Guest lectures and workshops from studios like Dog Studios and Gray Gaming
- Fully supported game jam events
- International exchange trips
Timetable & Qualifications
- 3-day college week
- Games design, development and animation classes
- Weekly wellbeing sessions
- Careers and progression support
This course leads to a UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Media Production & Technology. A Distinction grade is equivalent to up to 168 UCAS tariff points, giving you a strong foundation for progression to university or into the creative industries.
Level 1: one year | Level 2: one year | Level 3: two years
ENTRY CRITERIA
- Level 3: 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, one of which must be English
- Level 2: 3 GCSEs at Grade 3
- Must be under 19 on 1st September, or under 25 with an EHCP
- A clear passion for games creation — not just gameplay
Big Creative Academy has been officially rated Outstanding by OFSTED, reflecting its commitment to educational excellence. Inspectors highlighted the dedication and passion of staff, the use of innovative and engaging teaching methods, and a holistic approach to student development that supports both academic and personal growth.
Student Work
Watch a showcase of our students’ gaming projects, featuring original game designs, animations, and interactive worlds they’ve created during their course.
From Our Teachers
“At BCT we provide a supportive, all-encompassing and stimulating education for our Animation and NextGen VFX learners. Our syllabus is devised to mirror Industry practice whilst supporting learners to expand their knowledge, digital design and imaginative skills”
Alfred Zekaj, Curriculum Manager for Animation & Games Design Department
Develop talent Transform Lives Create Careers
Take your first step toward a career in gaming.
Launch your creative career through games design, development and digital storytelling at BCE.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is this course free?
Yes! This course is completely free for students under 19 on 1st September, or under 25 with an EHCP. All software, hardware, teaching and access to creative tools are fully covered — including use of high-end computers, dual monitors, and industry-standard software.
What will I actually learn on the course?
The course takes you through every stage of the game development process — from concept and planning to design, build and testing. You’ll learn how to:
- Create and pitch original game ideas with fully developed storyboards and gameplay mechanics
- Design and build 3D environments, props and characters using Blender and Unreal Engine
- Animate models and objects using rigging and compositing techniques
- Create visual effects (VFX) and add cinematic features to your game
- Develop user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) designs
- Understand scripting logic and interactivity using game engines like Unity
- Work on real studio-style briefs and group challenges
- Build a complete digital portfolio of your best work including your own playable game demo
What kind of projects will I work on?
You’ll work on game design sprints, level design challenges, and full production projects including character builds, cutscene development and VFX demos. Each student develops a final project where you design and build a game concept from the ground up — pitching your idea, developing assets, and coding gameplay functionality. You’ll also respond to team briefs that simulate working in a real game studio environment.
What kind of careers can this lead to?
You’ll be equipped for careers such as:
- Game Designer or Developer
- 3D Modeller or Animator
- VFX Artist or Technical Artist
- Level Designer or Environment Artist
- UI/UX Designer
- Indie Game Creator or Freelance Developer
- Or progression to degrees in Games Art, Games Technology, Animation or Creative Media
How is this course connected to the industry?
This course is built with industry expectations in mind — from the tools you use to the way projects are managed. You’ll take part in game jams, receive live briefs and feedback from studios, and build an online presence as a creative professional. Previous students have worked with or been mentored by professionals from Dog Studios, Gray Gaming, and other UK-based developers.
What kind of equipment and software will I use?
You’ll use high-spec computers with dual monitors and access to Blender, Unreal Engine, Unity, Photoshop, Krita and more. Project spaces are designed to replicate collaborative environments, and students have access to styluses, sound libraries, and animation software used in the games industry.
How does the course support wellbeing and creative development?
The Games Design department focuses heavily on wellbeing and confidence-building. You’ll have regular 1:1 tutorials, collaborative peer sessions, and access to structured wellbeing and enrichment workshops. The course also helps develop resilience through creative challenges and confidence through pitch presentations and critiques.
What’s the timetable like?
The course runs 3 days per week and includes:
- Games design, development and animation workshops
- Collaborative project sessions and critiques
- Wellbeing and careers education
- English or Maths resits (if applicable)
What are the entry requirements?
- Level 3: 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English
- Level 2: 3 GCSEs at Grade 3
- You must be under 19 on 1st September, or under 25 with an EHCP
- No coding experience required — just creativity, motivation and a strong interest in how games are made
What if I’ve only played games but never made one?
That’s exactly what this course is for. You’ll be guided through each stage of game creation, even if you’re starting from scratch. By the end of the course, you’ll have built your own game levels, animated characters, and designed game-ready assets — all ready to showcase in your digital portfolio.