"The need for an industry-backed accreditation scheme became apparent over recent years as more and more employers began to voice concerns over a lack of some basic, but crucial, technical and production skills displayed by recent graduates.

The scheme recognises animation courses throughout the UK which have passed a rigorous assessment process, and as a result, are felt to be providing their graduates with the sufficient skills and experience to ensure a swift transition into the working community.

Marion Edwards, Independent Animation Producer and Chair of Skillset's Animation Forum.

The first ever animation courses to receive the industry's official seal of approval were announced by Skillset at Animated Encounters in Bristol in 2005. The pilot accreditation scheme of degree level animation courses throughout the UK was devised by Skillset in consultation with the industry and education providers. The successful courses are:

BA (Hons) Animation Production at the Arts Institute, Bournemouth;

BA (Hons) Computer Visualisation and Animation at Bournemouth University;

HND in Art & Design (Computer Animation) / BA Hons Animation at the Glamorgan Centre for Art & Design Technology;

BA (Hons) Animation at the University of Wales, Newport;

BA (Hons) Animation at University College for the Creative Arts at Farnham; and

BA (Hons) Computer Animation at the University of Teesside.

There are also numerous courses at other levels - eg Foundation Degrees or Post Graduate Level Courses available at Skillset's network of Screen Academies.

Skillset, Focus Point, 21 Caledonian Road, London, N1 9GB. Tel: 020 7713 9800