Spotlight on: Plamen Ananiev (Lecturer at MetStudios London)

Ever wondered what it’s like to study an animation degree in London? Based in Ealing Studios, MetStudios London offers a supportive creative community where students can learn, collaborate, and grow.

We spoke with Plamen Ananiev, a 2D animator and rigger with over 10 years of experience in the animation industry, about what you can expect from our course and how it prepares you for a career in the creative industries.

Having worked on shows for Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+, Plamen brings real production insight directly into the classroom. He shares how his professional experience helps shape a practical, industry-focused learning environment and why he’s excited to pass that knowledge on to the next generation of animators.

For anyone new to our Animation course, how would you describe what it’s all about?

This is a wonderfully inclusive animation course, focused on two goals: finding your creative voice and working industry standards. The course embraces all creative mediums and provides the technical facilities to support your journey. You will be guided by industry professionals and find your own way in the medium of animation.

How do students balance creative storytelling with the technical skills needed to bring their ideas to life?

Students learn to see storytelling and technical skills as interconnected rather than separate. The course supplies the tools and tech,and we provide the guidance, but the main driving force is the students’ creativity and vision. That is ultimately what determines the technique they will employ, not the other way round.

Collaboration is central to the animation and games industries – how do students experience that kind of teamwork on the course?

Sharing a campus, there is a creative crossover between MetStudios and MetFilm School. From the very beginning of the course, the students are able to collaborate with the BA Screen Acting students for visual reference and voice work. We’re also developing a collaboration with MA Screenwriting, during which Animation students will work with scripts for short films.

How does your own professional experience feed into your teaching?

I have been working in the 2D animation industry for the last 10 years, both as an animator and rigger. I am still actively working on projects and exploring new software and techniques which allows me to bring my professional experience and network of industry connections to my teaching. My feedback is geared towards the requirements in the industry and aims to support the students on their way there.

How do students connect with the animation and games industry while they’re studying?

Students connect with the animation and games industry through direct exposure, collaboration opportunities, and professional mentorship throughout their studies. The course offers collaborations with external partners and guest lectures, as well as workshops led by industry professionals. The teachers themselves have extensive experience in their fields as well.

What advice would you give to aspiring animators starting out today?

Practise a lot and observe the world around you. I believe that this is how you become a better animator, and the main thing any studio will be looking for is the quality of your showreel.

Try new things and different styles. Showing that you’re capable of adapting is important – and who knows, the show you’re applying to work for might have a similar style to something you’ve done.

Networking is important. It’s something that not all of us enjoy that much, but from my personal experience I can say it really helps. It is also great being around like- minded people and exchanging ideas.

If you could sum up the course in three words, what would they be?

Creative, collaborative, industry-ready.

Interested in becoming a game designer, artist, or developer at MetStudios?

Sign up for one of our Open Days or apply via UCAS.

MetStudios London Open Evening – 18 March 2026

Craft the Digital Worlds of Tomorrow.

MetStudios is for people who imagine new worlds and want to bring them to life. Small classes, one-to-one mentorship, and practical, hands-on projects sit at the heart of everything we do. We put wellbeing and diversity first, so you have the space and confidence to explore your creativity and create work that feels truly your own. Learn more about us here.