Three Bournemouth University graduates who went on to create one of Britain’s most successful animation studios will receive a BAFTA Special Award next month.
Blue Zoo Animation Studio, founded in 2000 by Bournemouth University classmates Tom Box, Adam Shaw and Oli Hyatt, will be recognised for its social and cultural impact.
The studio, which began with three graduates sharing ideas at the university’s National Centre for Computer Animation, is now the UK’s largest producer of children’s and family content. Its credits include Pip and Posy, The Adventures of Paddington and the educational series Alphablocks and Numberblocks, which help young children develop early reading and maths skills.
The award will be presented on Monday 8 December. Co-founder Oli Hyatt said the honour is “a huge pat on the back for Blue Zoo, our staff and clients, and by extension, the wider animation community.” He added that the team will continue to create high-quality content that educates and entertains.
Tom Box said his time at Bournemouth University gave him the skills and opportunities to start the company, adding that many graduates have since gone on to work at the studio.
BAFTA Chief Executive Jane Millichip said Blue Zoo’s work “exemplifies innovation with impact and entertainment with purpose,” praising the studio for its contribution to diversity, education and imagination in screen arts.
The National Centre for Computer Animation at Bournemouth University continues to train students who go on to work on Oscar and BAFTA-winning productions worldwide.
Left to Right: Adam Shaw, Tom Box, Oli Hyatt
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