From Level 3 to Degree: Ashton’s Animation Journey
Ashton Lawrence is continuing his creative journey on the BA Animation degree at East Sussex College’s Newhaven campus, having progressed directly from the College’s Level 3 Animation course at Lewes.
His path into animation began with a love of drawing, but uncertainty about where that passion could lead.
“I used to be really fond of drawing and loved it, but didn’t know where to go with it,” said Ashton. “When I was looking at my options after school, my mum found the Animation course at East Sussex College and said 'check this out'. She showed me all the student animations and I realised that was the course for me.”
From the start, Ashton was drawn to animation as a powerful storytelling medium.
“I love a story that I can relate to, that really resonates with me. Like in my personality, things I enjoy,” he said. “I watched a pilot episode of an animation on YouTube that someone had been developing since they were about my age, and they’d kept working on it over time.”
That experience helped shape his creative ambitions.
“Animation inspires me to tell stories and show my imagination in a way that I never could if I wrote a book,” Ashton explained. “I love the ability to portray thoughts and dreams in a medium that you can hold, view and show other people.”
The Level 3 Animation course provided Ashton with the foundation he needed to take his creativity further. Alongside developing technical animation and illustration skills, collaboration and communication became a key part of his growth as an artist.
“The most important skill I’ve developed on the course is communication and how I interact with people. Making friends has been a really positive influence on how I understand art – it’s bettered my skills as an illustrator.”
Supportive tutors and access to high-quality facilities helped Ashton build confidence and prepare for progression to higher education.
“Tutors are friendly and supportive, and I can always go to them for guidance if I need help. The equipment here is of a really high standard and perfect to improve and learn from.”
Now studying on the BA Animation degree at East Sussex College’s Newhaven campus, Ashton is focusing fully on developing his animation skills while working towards his long-term goal of becoming an independent animator.
Choosing to continue his studies locally has allowed him to progress to degree-level study without the financial pressures of moving away from home, while still benefiting from the same supportive and nurturing environment he experienced during his Level 3 course. With small class sizes, dedicated tutor support and strong links to the local creative industries, the Newhaven campus provides a high-quality learning experience within a growing creative hub, enabling students like Ashton to develop their talent on their doorstep.
“I’m now in Higher Education at ESC’s Newhaven campus, which focuses on animation solely because I wanted to try and focus on being an Indie animator,” he said.
He draws inspiration from industry creatives who build worlds and communities through their work.
“I’m really inspired by people like Dan Povenmire, people that inspire generations and create these cultures and fan bases around their work, their passion – things they enjoy. That is genuinely what I want to do and what I want to be when I’m older.”
Looking ahead, Ashton sees his degree as the next step towards a creative career in animation and beyond.
“After my course, I’m hoping to be skilled at 3D animating which would allow me to go into game design. I’d recommend my Level 3 course to other students looking to get into the industry. I’ve been able to interact with like-minded people, and it’s been a real stepping stone on to the BA Animation course.”
Ashton’s journey highlights how East Sussex College supports students to progress from further education into degree-level study, providing a nurturing environment from finishing school right through to completing a degree, while offering clear pathways into the animation and creative industries.