Still image showing two floating robots in a workshop setting, taken from the 'Quick Fix' trailer created during the Blue Zoo x NextGen Virtual Animation Studio Bootcamp in November 2021. Images of Blue Zoo, NextGen and Ufi VocTech Trust logos.

Blue Zoo Virtual Animation Studio Bootcamp

Applications are closed for the second Blue Zoo Virtual Animation Studio Bootcamp starting on 28th February 2022! Thank you to everyone who applied.

Following the successful first bootcamp in November 2021 we’re really excited to welcome a new cohort in February 2022! Participants will advance and refine their 3D animation skills in a bespoke virtual animation studio environment developed by Tom Box, Founder of Blue Zoo Animation Studio.

This intense free industry-backed online learning experience, funded by Ufi VocTech Trust and delivered by Blue Zoo, teaches asset-centric workflow management as found in creative studios, uses the functionality of advanced professional tools, and empowers learners with the confidence to hit the ground running in a professional studio. All learners are supported by industry tutors and coaches, and attend masterclasses hosted by Blue Zoo artists.

Blender Logo
All bootcamp participants will be using Blender, a free and open source 3D creation suite.
Above: The final video created by participants on the first Blue Zoo Virtual Animation Studio Bootcamp in November 2021. This was created by 11 aspiring 3D Animators working remotely on the skillsXchange platform in four weeks.
"I experienced a lot more than I'd ever have expected and the support was amazing! The bootcamp 100% increased my confidence to apply for an animation job, it gave me an insight and loads of confidence that once my showreel is up to scratch I have a chance at gaining employment. I'd love another go!"
Participant on the first bootcamp

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Work in progress image of a conveyor belt animated asset created using Blender.Work in progress image of a workshop environment created in Blender during the first Blue Zoo x NextGen Virtual Animation Studio Bootcamp
Above: Work in progress created during the first bootcamp

Train to work in a virtual studio

  • Learners are set briefs which closely replicate real industry commissions, for example ‘Create a 30 second animated commercial for…’
  • Learners work remotely in teams with specific individual roles to deliver on the brief, working in bite-size tasks that have tutorials and best practise tips built in
  • All learners use Blender, a free-to-use powerful 3D animation creation suite
  • The project is supported by a Production Coordinator, Blender Technical Adviser and Employment Coach
  • All learners attend industry led masterclasses with Blue Zoo artists focusing on technical and professional skills
  • All project assets and workflow management is hosted on the skillsXchange platform. This bespoke platform uses the functionality and emulates the look and layout of advanced professional tools, enabling users to quickly master versions of these tools in one portal
  • Learners receive industry feedback and guidance at every stage of the bootcamp, including support with employment advice
  • This is a free full-time learning experience from Monday 28th February to Friday 25th March. It is expected that participants will learn for 7 hours each day from Monday to Friday, and will be available between the core hours of 11am and 4pm on these days with the other hours to be worked to suit you

Applications are now closed for the second bootcamp starting in February 2022

We will update this page with more details and work from the second bootcamp when it gets started in late February!