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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma in Digital Animation 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
71756  Diploma in Digital Animation 
ORIGINATOR
The Animation School Pty (Ltd) - Cape Town 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Diploma  Field 02 - Culture and Arts  Film, Television and Video 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Level 6  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2032-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:

The Animation School (TAS) learning programme is designed to cover theoretical, practical and technological workings of animation production. The intended learning programme equips learners with the key skills of understanding, visualisation, conceptualization, production and technical function.

The Animation School learning programme is designed to offer creatively talented applicants the opportunity to gain valuable skills for expression in the production of animation. The Animation School offer specialised animation related learning programmes with Specific Outcomes and criteria. All learning programmes are measures with all the Assessment Criteria and Outcomes.

Rationale:

The Animation School rational for this Qualification is to equip the learner with all the necessary skills needed to enter the animation production industry in South Africa or abroad. Learners will be capable of entering the media industry through production establishments and agencies. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
The following actual knowledge is assumed to be in place in order to embark on learning:

National Senior Certificate or equivalent with appropriate subject combination.

Recognition of Prior Learning:

The structure of this qualification makes the Recognition of Prior Learning possible. This Qualification may therefore be achieved in part or completely through the Recognition of Prior Learning, which includes formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience. The learner should be thoroughly briefed on the mechanism to be used and support and guidance should be provided. Care should be taken that the mechanism used provides the learner with an opportunity to demonstrate competence and is not so onerous as to prevent learners from taking up the Recognition of Prior Learning option towards gaining a Qualification.

If the learner is able to demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes implicit in this Qualification the appropriate credits should be assigned to the learner. Recognition of Prior Learning will be done by means of Integrated Assessment as mentioned above.

This Recognition of Prior Learning may allow:
  • Accelerated access to further learning at this or higher levels on the NQF.
  • Gaining of Credits towards a Unit Standard.
  • Obtaining of this Qualification in part or in whole.

    The learning acquired by successful completion of Grade 12. Key competencies required are the ability and discipline to interpret and follow instructions and to complete allocated tasks in line with guidelines set.

    Only under circumstances where applicants have met the necessary Exit Level Outcomes needed to enrol into the course at the desired point of entry. Every applicant is reviewed on an individual basis and through the process of an interview, advised as to the route that best suits their needs and fits within the framework of any prior learning that they have undertaken.

    Access to the Qualification:
  • Competent in English Language at NQF Level 4 or equivalent.
  • Computer Literacy.
  • Creativity inclined with Art Portfolio. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    Fundamentals:

    Learning components (Modules titles only); Number of Credits allocated; NQF Level:

    Year 1:
  • History of Animation; 2; 6.
  • Animation Techniques; 2; 6.
  • 2d Digital Animation; 18; 6.
  • 3d Digital Modelling I; 30; 6.
  • Texturing and Mapping I; 2; 6.
  • Lighting Techniques I; 2; 6.
  • Rendering Techniques I; 2; 6.
  • Geometry Texture Unwrapping; 12; 6.
  • 2d Digital Painting for texturing;18; 6.
  • 3d Digital Modelling II; 16; 6.
  • Digital 3d Animation I; 18; 6.

    Subtotal; 120 Credits.

    Core:

    Year 2:
  • Character Development Level I; 3; 6.
  • Character Development Level II; 5; 6.
  • Character Development Level III; 20; 6.
  • Character Development Level IV; 7; 6.
  • Character Development Level V; 3; 6.
  • Character Skeleton Rigging; 10; 6.
  • Character Deformations and Morphing; 5; 6.
  • Character Development Level VI; 6; 6.
  • Character Development Level VII; 3; 6.
  • Character Posing; 8; 6.
  • Animation Roto-scoping I; 8; 6.
  • Animation Roto-scoping II; 10; 6.
  • 3D Environments I; 4; 6.
  • 3D Environments II; 3; 6.
  • 3D Walk-Cycle; 10; 6.
  • Lip-sync for Digital Animation; 8; 6.
  • Body Language for Digital Animation; 10; 6.

    Subtotal; 121 Credits.

    Year 3:
  • Story Development I; 1; 6.
  • Story Development II; 1; 6.
  • Character Styles; 2; 6.
  • Art Direction for Animation; 2; 6.
  • Storyboarding for Animation; 2.8; 6.
  • Storyline Case Study 1; 6.
  • Production Planning I; 3.5; 6.
  • Production Planning II; 3.5; 6.
  • Production Planning III; 3.5; 6.
  • Vocal Tracks and Voiceovers; 3.5; 6.
  • Story Reel and Animatics; 3.5; 6.
  • 3D Animatics, Layout, Sound and Camera Direction; 3.5; 6.
  • Generating 3D Geometry; 5; 6.
  • Texturing and Material; 5; 6.
  • Prepare 3d Geometry for Animation; 5; 6.
  • Lighting for Animation Production; 17.5; 6.
  • Rendering for Animation Production; 17.5; 6.
  • Visual Effects; 4; 6.
  • Composting; 3.5; 6.
  • Sound Effects and Music; 3.5; 6.
  • 1 Month Industry Internship; 30; 6.

    Subtotal; 115 Credits.

    Qualification Rules: (Choice of modules or Unit Standards and Credits)

    This Qualification is a 3 year programme consisting of compulsory Fundamental and Core modules.

    All modules need to be completed in order to obtain the Qualification. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply the Fundamentals of Digital Animation (1st Year).

    2. Apply Character Animation Techniques (2nd Year).

    3. Production of Animation Techniques (3rd Year).

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

    This Qualification addresses all the Critical Crossfield Outcomes. A learner who obtains the Diploma in Digital Animation can:
  • Identify and solve problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made.
  • Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation, community.
  • Organise and manage oneself and one`s activities responsibly and effectively.
  • Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information.
  • Communicate effectively, using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentation.
  • Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and the health/well-being of others.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem- solving contexts do not exist in isolation. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

    1.1 History of Animation:

    Competence is evident when candidates are tested in a written exam.

    1.2 Animation Techniques:

    Competence is evident when candidates are tested in a written exam.

    1.3 2D Digital Animation using Toon Boom software:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of a traditional animation production using digital ink and paint software applications according to written instructions in the form of a brief.

    1.4 3D Modeling utilizing Computer Generated software:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of project utilizing primitive computer generated geometry according to written instructions in the form of a brief.

    1.5 Fundamental Texturing and Mapping:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of project utilizing standard texturing techniques for mapping onto to 3D geometry.

    1.6 Fundamental Lighting Techniques:

    Competence is evident on successful lighting portrayed in a project according to a written brief.

    1.7 Fundamental Rendering Techniques:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of rendered images utilizing 3D digital software.

    1.8 Fundamental Unwrapping:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of unwrapping 3D geometry according to the 2D painting requirements outlined in a written brief.

    1.9 Fundamental Texturing utilizing 2D Painting Software Applications:

    Competence is evident on successful completion digitally painting unwrapped 3D geometry in 2D painting software applications according to the 2D painting requirements outlined in a written brief.

    2.0 Fundamental Modeling Techniques utilizing 2D reference images:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of practical assignment utilizing 2D images in 3D environments according to written instructions in the form of a written brief.

    2.1 Fundamental Animation utilizing 3D Software Applications:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of practical assignment according to written instructions in the form of a written brief.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

    1.1 Character Development Level 1-Illustrative Design I:

    Competence is evident on successful presentation on verbal and visual representation of desired characters according to written brief. Proportions, balance and weight are evident on successful illustration of character appeal using illustrative references.

    1.2 Character Development Level 2-Illustrative Design II:

    Competence is evident on successful final illustrative character on paper including thumbnail sketchers in full colour with environments. Written description of 300 words naming the character, portraying personality traits, attitude, vocation and general mannerisms.

    1.3 Character Development Level 3-Modeling in 3D Software Application:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of 3D geometry utilizing software applications. Geometry needs to comply with technical criteria outlined in a written brief.

    1.4 Character Development Level 4-Unwrapping 3D Geometry:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of unwrapping 3D geometry according to original design maintaining integrity of illustrative design. Texture seams are reduced and scenes are managed correctly using naming conventions and time management skills which are all outlined in the form of a written brief.

    1.5 Character Development Level 5-Converting Geometry:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of converting polygonal geometry into Sub-divisional geometry maintaining accurate texture transfers according to written instructions in the form of a written brief.

    1.6 Character Skeleton Rigging in 3D software application:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of a skeleton rig to be utilizing for animation. Skeleton rig will comply with human movements maintaining instructions according to written brief.

    1.7 Character Blend Shapes and Morphing:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of voice phonemes, blend shapes and morphs according to written instructions in form of a brief.

    1.8 Character Development Level 6-Skinning:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of a completed rigged character bound to the appropriate skinning methods according to instructions outlined in a written brief.

    1.8 Character Development Level 7-High and Low Resolution Geometry:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of a high and low resolution geometry bound to the rigged character for purposes of animation according to instructions outline in a written brief.

    1.9 Character Posing:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of character posing according to body language and posing principles in the form of a practical assignment outlined in written instructions in the form of a brief.

    2.0 Animation Rotoscoping I:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of a video rotoscoping project where candidates trace movement using real world references and assessment is made according to outcomes.

    2.1 Animation Rotoscoping II:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of animation rotoscoping project where candidates select specific movement references to accurately re-create animation maintaining smooth timing and flowing kinematics in movement.

    2.2 3D Environment Modeling I:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of animation environment project where candidates' accurately produce 3d geometry for background environments.

    2.3 3D Environment Modeling II:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of animation environment project where candidates' accurately paint textures for 3d geometry utilized in background environments.

    2.4 3D walk-cycle Animation:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of an animation walk-cycle project which includes secondary animation, body language and timing and movement principles. Additional cycles such as run-cycles and push cycles may also be included.

    2.5 Lip-sync for Digital Animation:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of lip-syncing project according to video or voice recording references.

    2.6 Body Language for Digital Animation:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of character movements according to specific body expressions and moods.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

    1.1 Story Development I Recognizing a Good Story for Animation:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of story case study assessed through visual and verbal presentation.

    1.2 Story Development II Typical Story Styles:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of story case study assessed through visual and verbal presentation. Candidates also write their own storylines for production which are hand written according to a brief.

    1.3 Character Styles:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of character styles specific to the storyline outlined in the previous course and presented in an illustrative manner to a public audience for comment.

    1.4 Art Direction for Animation:

    Competence is evident on successful completion in creating a planning board illustrating all the styles, mood direction elements, props and character background connections.

    1.5 Storyboarding for Animation:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of a physical storyboard illustrating principles of preliminary shot construction and scene planning according to written storyline.

    1.6 Storyline Case Study:

    Competence is evident on successful oral questioning on the specific storyline.

    1.7 Production Planning I-Over-all Production Pipleline:

    Competence is evident on successful presentation outlining story reel, flow charts and preplanning the journey for the storyline.

    1.8 Production Planning II-Budget Analysis:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of a fictitious budget for the entire storyline production.

    1.9 Production Planning III-Scheduling the Production:

    Competence is evident on successful illustration of planning in pre-production, shot-production, post-production and milestones according to outlined brief and deadline.

    2.0 Vocal Tracks and Voice Overs:

    Competence is evident on successful recordings of voice actors maintaining all the principles outlined in voice recording brief.

    2.1 Story Reel and Animatics:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of a 2D animatic according to original approved storyline according to specifications outlined in written brief.

    2.2 3D Animatics, Layout, sound and Camera Direction:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of a 3D animatic including camera direction arrows and according to original approved storyline according to specifications outlined in written brief.

    2.3 Generating 3D Geometry:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of all 3D geometry maintaining all proportional aspects according to original storyline by means of a visual presentation.

    2.4 Texturing and Materials:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of all 3D geometry maintaining all texture mapping and coloring principles according to original storyline by means of a visual presentation.

    2.5 Preparing 3D Geometry for Animation:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of geometry setup for rigging, binding and facial morph targets for main characters, non-characters and secondary by means of a visual presentation.

    2.6 Lighting for Animation Production:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of lighting styles, types of lights and shadows by means of visual presentation.

    2.7 Rendering for Animation Production:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of rendered images utilizing specific render techniques for optimization, resolution and image format by means of a visual presentation.

    2.8 Visual Special Effects:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of visual effects according to original storyline by means of visual presentation.

    2.9 Compositing:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of composting rendered animation layers for specific effects according to storyline mood and enhancement by means of a visual presentation.

    3.0 Sound Effects and Music:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of 3D animatic including completed sound effects and music according to look and feel of original storyline.

    3.1 Industry Internship:

    Competence is evident on successful completion of 1 month industry internship according to internship procedures and agreement.

    Integrated Assessment:
  • Assessment practices must be open, transparent, fair, valid, and reliable and ensure that no learner is disadvantaged in any way whatsoever, so that an integrated approach to assessment is incorporated into the qualification.
  • Learning, teaching and assessment are inextricably interwoven. Whenever possible, the assessment of knowledge, skills, attitudes and values shown in the qualification should be integrated.
  • Assessment of fundamental should be integrated as far as possible with other aspects and should use practical contexts wherever possible. A variety of methods must be used in assessment and tools and activities must be appropriate to the context in which the learner is working or will work. Where it is not possible to assess the learner in the workplace or on-the-job, simulations, case studies, role-plays and other similar techniques should be used to provide a context appropriate to the assessment.

    The term `Integrated Assessment` implies that theoretical and practical components should be assessed together. During integrated assessments, the assessor should make use of a range of formative and summative assessment tools methods and assess combinations of practical, applied, foundational and reflective competencies. Continuous assessment should be provided through:

    > Portfolios.
    > Simulations.
    > Workplace assessments and practical workbooks.
    > Written assignments.
    > Written tests.
    > Case studies and case presentations.
    > Peer group evaluation.
    > Competency evaluations of clinical skills.
    > Face to face contact with learners.
  • Assessors must assess and give credit for the evidence of learning that has already been acquired through formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience.
  • Assessment should ensure that all the Outcomes and Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are evaluated in an integrated manner.

    Theory lectures are all followed by tests or written exams.

    Practical assignments are always accompanied by a detailed brief listing instructions as per industry specification and in most cases simulate on the job experience. The brief clearly status the purposes of the assignment and, the Outcome and Assessment Criteria which, is used by both the Assessors and Moderator.

    Feedback of assessment is offered in a structured manner as per the assessment guidelines by certified assessors. The candidate also receives a feedback report in July and December indicating competency levels. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The principles of animation remain the same throughout the world. In animation production the techniques and procedures have been laid down for centuries and all that changes are the tools such as in the early Disney era animation was all hand drawn and photographed using traditional style expose sheets. Now days Disney use computer generated software to produce animation however the principles of animation remain the same. The Animation School (TAS) constantly compare its course structure to international institutions to measure up to the international markets and trends.

    In terms of technology The Animation School maintain systems and software applications in accordance to international specification making The Animation Sschool an Authorised Training Centre (ATC) for Autodesk a leading designing and engineering software company. The Authorised Training Centre status can only be maintain by adhering to international standards in technology, facilities and staff. The Animation School management team have been involved in the Authorised Training Centre program for over a decade bringing this experience to The Animation School has proved to better equip students and graduates for the international.

    The Animation School have since its inception been active is researching international courses to maintain a balance between South Africa and the world. Vancouver Film School (VFS) in Canada was one of the institutions that were researched and found to be covering many modules we had been covering for previously. Vancouver Film School offer many media courses and have a student gallery online which we constantly measure up against and we have found that our students/graduates have in most instances maintain the same level of standard or in some cases exceeded them. The Animation School have through the years successfully seen graduates land excellent production jobs in foreign production houses such as Germany, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, United States of America, Canada just to name a few.

    The Animation School consider its animation course to be aligned to the international market and have successfully educated students from all corners of the globe including, Holland, Germany, UK and many other countries in Africa. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This Qualification allows for both horizontal and vertical articulation.

    Vertical articulation:

    Animation covers many creative principles as well as technical procedures. A graduate will find it seamless transition into other curriculum in film and television production, architectural visualisation or any design programmes at NQF Level 6.

    Horizontal articulation:

    The Animation School's 3-Year Diploma course has a high practical component. A graduate may use this course as a foundation into a degree in any field that is associated with animation, television or film production at NQF Level 5 or 6. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against this Qualification must be registered and appointed by the provider according to existing moderation guidelines of the HEQC or relevant ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning of this Qualification must be accredited as a provider with the relevant HEQC or ETQA.
  • Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the HEQC or relevant ETQA, according to the HEQC or ETQA policies and guidelines for Assessment and Moderation;
  • Moderation should also validate the achievement of competencies and assessment processes as described in Exit Level Outcomes and Integrated Assessment options as described in the Qualification.

    Every course assessment is accompanied by a brief that includes an assessment sheet to be used by internal or external assessors in which a break-down for all necessary assessment criteria are included.

    Internal Moderators:

    Peter den Hartogh:

    Field: 2D Animation, 3D Modeling, Texturing, Lighting, Rendering, Movement, Character Animation, Animation Production, Sound Production, Video Production, Compositing and Video Editing.

    Nuno Martins:

    Field: 3D Modeling, Texturing, Lighting, Rendering, Movement, Character Animation, Animation Production, Sound Production, Video Production and Video Editing.

    Craig Murray:

    Field: 2D Animation, 3D Modeling, Texturing, Lighting, Rendering, Movement, Character Animation, Animation Production, Sound Production, Video Production, Compositing and Video Editing.

    External Moderators:

    These are selected from industry in the various fields of discipline that makes up animation production. Moderators do not always take part in the assessment of student work but act as consultants on course curriculum's and the possible adaptation of curriculum's to better align the industry.

    1. Marc Bloch:

    Field: Digital Post Production.
    Producer: Black Ginger.

    2. Rhyder Key:

    Field: 3D Animation.
    Producer: Condor Cape.

    3. Craig Wessels:

    Field: Animation Visual Effects.
    Producer: Wicked Pixels.

    4. Jason van Niekerk:

    Field: Animation, Visual Effects and Gaming.
    Producer: RGB and Alpha.

    5. Sam King:

    Field: Animation.
    Producer: Trigger Fish.

    6. Field: Animation.
    Producer: Character Matters. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    For an applicant to register as an assessor, the applicant needs:
  • A Qualification one level higher than the exit level of the Qualification.
  • Interpersonal skills, subject matter expertise and assessment experience.
  • To be competent in the planning and conducting of assessment of learning outcomes.
  • The subject matter experience must be well developed within the field of digital animation.

    The assessor must have completed:
  • A similar Qualification or from the same family of Qualifications, at or above the level of the Qualification,
  • Minimum of one year experience within the digital animation environment.

    The subject matter experience of the assessor can be established by Recognition of Prior Learning.

    Assessors need to be registered with the relevant Education and Training Quality Assurance Body. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. The Animation School Pty (Ltd) - Cape Town 
    2. The Animation School Pty (Ltd) - Johannesburg 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.