Tuesday Animation Club | 10 - 13 years | 4 pm - 5:30 pm

An introduction to 2D animation, combining traditional techniques with digital tools. Students explore drawing, movement, timing and animation principles through short, practical exercises, developing drawing skills and bringing their own ideas to life.

Block 1: 8 weeks starting Monday 17th August
Block 2: 9 weeks starting Monday 19th October

Not sure? Book a three session taster here.

How flexible is Submarine on age ranges?
Although we appreciate that children and teens develop at different rates, we ask that, except in special circumstances, the stated age ranges for each club are respected. Different age groups can vary considerably in noise levels and social dynamics, so keeping groups within their intended age range helps ensure a comfortable and enjoyable environment for everyone.

What kind of activities do you do in Animation Club?
Animation Club focuses on the practice of 2D animation: creating movement, bringing characters to life and developing drawing skills along the way. Students will primarily work with Procreate and Procreate Dreams, alongside traditional animation techniques and equipment such as lightboxes. Sessions are designed to encourage experimentation while introducing a range of animation principles, techniques and approaches.

What expectations do you have around students’ ability?
Animation Club is beginner-friendly, but students should have a genuine interest in 2D animation and be prepared to engage with the process. Animation can be an intensive and repetitive practice, so patience and enthusiasm are important - sometimes you really do have to draw the same thing hundreds of times!

What should students bring with them in terms of materials and refreshments?
No additional materials are required. Students are welcome to bring an animation project from home, either on paper or on an iPad, to continue working on during the club. Please note that we do not have access to computers, so projects created as computer-based files cannot be worked on during sessions. Students are also welcome to bring a snack and drink.

How would you describe the ‘vibe’ of the sessions, are they quiet and serious, loud and fun, or somewhere in between?
Sessions aim for a balance: relaxed and social, while still providing structure and focused time to make and learn. Students are encouraged to chat and build relationships with their peers, but we ask that they do not run or shout, as Submarine is not equipped for this and it can pose a risk to students and equipment.

Are the sessions suitable for children with additional support needs?
We welcome children with a range of learning and support needs, but please be aware that our art clubs are group sessions and are not staffed to provide one-to-one support. Students need to be able to communicate their needs to a member of staff, use the bathroom independently, and follow basic instructions and safety guidance without individual assistance.
If your child requires a higher level of support to participate safely or comfortably, please contact us before booking so we can discuss whether the club is suitable for them. Letting us know about your child’s needs in advance is important, but unfortunately we cannot guarantee that we will be able to accommodate needs that require ongoing one-to-one support during the session.

Who will be teaching my children?
Animation Club will primarily be taught by Inez Skilling, an award-winning animator who has also taught animation for the British Film Institute. Inez specialises in traditional 2D animation and is interested in how new technologies can be used to enhance and support traditional animation techniques.