Is the StoryFutures Academy the Future for Immersive Tech?

The UK is at the forefront of the creative revolution – and we’ve just taken another step further. The UK’s National Centre for Immersive Storytelling has just been launched, known as the StoryFutures Academy! What does this mean for creatives? How will it change the way we tell stories in the future? Let’s dig a little deeper…

The importance of immersive technology

From education to entertainment, immersive technologies have the power to revolutionise the way we perceive and experience the world around us. Thanks to tech such as virtual and augmented reality, the faces of many industries have been completely transformed already.  

For example, immersive tech can be used in zoos and aquariums to enhance user experience and take engagement to the next level. Shopping centres are another area that has felt the benefits. Plus, there are a number of other virtual reality business opportunities just waiting to be unlocked. Technology of this nature can make certain experiences accessible to all.

But, we’ve only scratched the surface of what it can do! So, what’s next?

What does this mean for storytellers?

Storytellers need to harness the power of immersive technology.

Mixed, augmented and virtual reality are set to radically change how we tell stories in the future. Creatives need to use this to their advantage! Together, they have the ability to create new experiences that captivate the public.

However, some struggle to access the tools they need in order to bring their great ideas to fruition. In order to become a pioneer and leading figure in the creative space, the UK needs to develop its workforce.

How can the Storyfutures Academy help?

Run by the National Film and Television School and Royal Holloway, University of London, this academy is the UK’s National Centre for Immersive Storytelling. This both an exciting partnership and a unique collaboration.

The centre aims to:

·       Ensure the UK workforce is the most skilled when it comes to VR, AR and MR

·       Create new opportunities for traditional screen-industry talent

·       Promote new productions

How will it do this?

The centre will offer state-of-the-art, cutting-edge training and research programmes in immersive tech. This will involve everything from experimental labs to on-set bootcamps. These are available to everyone from beginners to those trying to develop skills they have already.

It will also co-fund a number of different immersive productions with a focus on storytelling.

What’s special about the centre?

The centre also aims to diversify UK talent. This country is home to a wealth of extraordinary individuals who have the ability to transform the immersive space.

The academy is in place to give people the tools they need to harness their skills.

What role did Innovate UK play?

The centre is a significant element of the Audience of the Future programme, which is part government’s Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund. This aims to transform user experience and make the UK a pioneer in immersive technology. In order to do this, £33 million has been invested in order to harness and develop the necessary skills.

About Innovate UK

Innovate UK are part of UK Research and Innovation and are the organisation responsible for running the Audience of the Future project.

If you’re feeling inspired and want to learn about projects they’ve supported, subscribe to the Innovate UK YouTube channel.