Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland and Animation Ireland Launch New Competency Framework for the Animation Industry

Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland (Screen Ireland) and Animation Ireland have today published a new Competency Framework for the Animation Industry.

The Irish animation industry has long been a creative cornerstone of Ireland’s vibrant creative screen industry and has witnessed substantial growth in the last decade. Screen Ireland is committed to continued investment in the talent and skills required for its future success. Within this context, Screen Ireland supported Animation Ireland through the Screen Stakeholders Funding Scheme to develop the Competency Framework for the Animation Industry.

The development of the Competency Framework involved in-depth engagement with key industry stakeholders including studio members of Animation Ireland, education and training bodies with relevant courses in animation, as well as industry crew both employed and freelancers. The resulting documents will serve as an invaluable learning resource for the sector. The Competency Framework will assist the sector by: 

  • Identifying strengths and critical skills in the animation sector
  • Providing a template for tracking skills, personal and career development
  • Enhancing access opportunities and recruitment practices
  • Clarifying progression routes and pathways for career development
  • Aiding third level institutions and other training providers to develop new curricula that are better aligned with actual job roles as they operate within the animation sector.

Speaking about at the launch of the Competency Framework for the Animation Industry, Colman Farrell, Head of Skills and Professional Development at Screen Ireland, said: 

“The growth of Ireland’s dynamic and prolific animation sector has driven high-profile productions, artistic vision, commercial success and awards recognition at the highest levels internationally. Screen Ireland is delighted to contribute to the development of a comprehensive and dedicated Animation Competency Framework, a crucial resource to support the recruitment, retention and development of skilled creative talent to ensure the continued success of the animation sector.”

Ronan McCabe, CEO of Animation Ireland, said:

Animation Ireland is delighted to announce the publication of the Competency Framework document. It’s a very thorough and comprehensive piece of work and will be a helpful resource for studios, animation professionals and anyone contemplating a career in animation. The report’s author Alex Kotsos has engaged with all the stakeholders in putting this together and thanks to her and to the partners and funders of the report, Screen Ireland. This is a living document and will be updated on a regular basis in the constantly changing creative space that animation occupies.”

The Competency Framework is a dynamic resource, and Screen Ireland and Animation Ireland are dedicated to its continuous evaluation and revision as needed to maintain its relevance within the ever-changing landscape of the animation industry, including potential extensions into related sectors.

Screen Ireland and Animation Ireland would like to acknowledge and thank all of those who contributed to the development of the Competency Framework, especially the many industry crew and animation studios involved.