Animation is a method used when producing videos and films that has been made famous by studios such as Disney and Pixar. Children and young people can also use animation as a way to communicate information. Younger learners can use basic on screen animation software to make images move, building up to using methods such as stop motion animation, where objects are photographed and adjusted to create an illusion of movement. Learners at later progression stages are able to use motion graphics software to create more advanced productions.

Animation can be a great way to re-enact a historical event, to explain a scientific concept, to model a process or to develop the learner’s creativity. It can be combined with other video production techniques such as green screen or narration to create an effective method of sharing information.

Infographics are a method of presenting information that relies on their visual appeal to capture the attention of the audience. They combine colours, images and graphics with information in the form of text or data representations to share information effectively. Learners can create an infographic for almost any context and be used to present information for a variety of purposes: marketing, present findings, raise awareness, give advice, set instructions, reinforce knowledge etc. 

Infographics are widely used by many industries to target a specific audience and can be seen used extensively on social media to advertise products and services. Planning, creating and using infographics will allow learners to creatively use and develop key design principles that will make their communication more effective and efficient through the use of digital technologies. 

Music production can be a fun and creative way to enhance the learning experience for pupils. It offers opportunities in all areas of learning and experience for pupils to use their creativity and imagination to bring any subject alive. 

Music production is a skill that combines technology and composition. It allows pupils to record and create music without necessarily having to play instruments. Recordings can be synthesized using various software instruments or midi controllers. Music production skills range from simple audio recordings to more complex productions that could be released by artists. Learners will develop transferable skills such as editing, layering, sharing, collaboration and ownership. Learners may wish to follow careers in music production or music technology; sound technician, music artist, studio engineer, media producer etc. 

Photography is the art and practice of capturing and preserving moments, scenes, and objects using a camera. It allows you to create images that tell stories, evoke emotions, and capture the beauty of the world around us. Through photography, you can freeze a moment in time, document events, express your creativity, and share your perspective with others. It is a versatile medium that can be used for various purposes, such as personal expression, journalism, advertising, and more.

To take a photograph, you need a camera, which can be a dedicated digital camera or even a smartphone. By framing your subject within the camera’s viewfinder or screen, you can compose the image to your liking. Consider elements such as lighting, perspective, and the arrangement of objects within the frame. Once you capture an image, you can review it instantly and decide whether it meets your vision. If not, you can adjust settings, retake the photo, or edit it later using software. Editing allows you to enhance the image’s colours, contrast, sharpness, or even apply creative effects.

A podcast is an audio show that is recorded and shared through streaming services such as Spotify, BBC Sound, Apple Music (and many more!). They are created so that the audience can listen at a time that suits them and are often structured into a series of episodes. They usually involve more than one person and tend to follow a structured yet informal approach.

A podcast can be created on just about any topic to present information / discuss hot topics / explore and develop ideas.

This document shows how the skills associated with podcasting can be developed from progression step 1 through to 5. This can be used to support your activity planning, ensuring that appropriate skill progression and level of challenge are suitable for learners.

Creating videos can be a fun and creative way to enhance the learning experience for pupils. It offers opportunities in all areas of learning and experience for pupils to use their creativity and imagination to bring any subject alive. 

Videos can range from being instructional and informative to being fictional and cinematic. They can be as short or as long as needed and are usually aimed at a specific audience. 

Learners who have good video production skills may wish to pursue a career in the creative media industry, in roles such as a script writer, sound technician, camera operator, editor, director or producer. There are strong links between video production and literacy, as videos often contain some type of dialogue or narration.

Website design is the process of creating and maintaining websites. It involves various tasks and skills, including visual design, user experience (UX) design, and coding. It is the process of creating and organising the content, layout, and functionality of a website. Web design involves learners using visual tools and programming languages like HTML and CSS to build and publish a website.

It’s important to start with the basics and gradually introduce more complex concepts as learners become more comfortable with the process. Web design is all about creativity and self-expression, it encourages learners to think outside the box and come up with original ideas for their websites. Learners are able to experiment with different design elements which develops great skills and confidence in web design.

Developing high-quality presentation skills is of utmost importance for young people in today’s fast-paced and interconnected world. Effective presentation skills empower them to communicate their ideas, express their thoughts with confidence, and engage their audience. Whether it’s in the classroom, the workplace, or social settings, the ability to deliver engaging and impactful presentations is a valuable asset that can open doors to success.

Strong presentation skills not only enhance their academic performance but also foster critical thinking, creativity, and leadership abilities. By mastering the art of presentations, young people can effectively convey their message, showcase their knowledge and skills, and make a lasting impression.

Images are an integral part of our lives. In short, our brains were made for processing visuals! There’s lots of evidence that learning and remembering is improved through the use of visuals e.g. picture superiority effect, dual coding theory and sensory semantic theory.

Using image editing software has many features and benefits for learners. They will develop essential skills such as creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Learning a new skill can boost children’s self-esteem, allowing them to display their potential through creativity, stimulating children to develop their own ideas on design. It encourages planning and presentation skills, providing children with the opportunity to be innovative. Image creation gives learners the opportunity to communicate their ideas, thoughts and feelings in a wide variety of ways and thus develop a better understanding of the opinions of others.