Toy invention programme
Subject and course type
- Short course
Join the first Toy Invention programme of its kind in the UK and explore the innovative world of toys, games and interactive experiences.
Dates for this course to be confirmed.
Invent the future of play
Become part of the first Toy Invention programme of its kind in the UK.
Our innovative short course partners with the toy and entertainment giant Spin Master. Together, we bring industry know-how and creative learning to this crash course in inventing toys, games and new ways to play.
Delivered across twenty Wednesdays, we'll introduce you to the critical, creative and business processes of invention. You'll have expert guidance from communities of inventors, designers, innovators, makers, tinkerers and dreamers.
During the course, you'll explore:
- concept development
- participatory design
- the histories and cultures around play
- the prototyping, pitching and marketing of toys, games and interactive experiences
We host our programme in our Kingston School of Art workshops, with a team of tutors, technicians and an array of visitors, including schoolchildren, storytellers and even some magicians. A play therapist will guide your interactions with kids of all ages. You'll also receive valuable business insights through one-on-one meetings with Spin Master gurus.
The programme also has opportunities for you to connect with fellow students on sister courses in Hong Kong, Kyoto, Tel-Aviv and Toronto.
Who is this course for?
We welcome applicants from across and beyond design, education, care and other spaces related to toys, play, children and inventiveness. You may be:
- a recent graduate seeking a bridge into a professional toy inventor role
- returning to education in order to change direction or complement existing skills
- experienced in working for or around children and their imaginations
Course structure
The course is structured as four units. We have a limited number of places available for students wishing to take part in a single unit rather than the entire course.
- Reimagine everyday objects, activities and spaces
- Hack materials and mechanisms
- Gamify habits and trends
- Where do inventors' ideas spring from?
- Think through making and prototyping
- Sketching, storyboarding, modelling and mechanics
- 2D, 3D, physical computing, film and animation
- How do inventors bring ideas to life?
- Meet a toy company to map markets and industry
- Meet children to understand user-centred design
- How can we invent with each in mind?
- Identify emerging play and entertainment trends
- Engage with social and environmental issues and debate
- Where will invention go next?
Course information
What to bring
A basic list of what to bring will be sent to you in advance of the course start date. All other materials are provided by Kingston School of Art (KSA).
Meet your tutors
This programme is led by experienced tutors from Kingston School of Art (KSA), bringing a wealth of insight, knowledge and expertise:
- Rebecca Davies
- Kieran O'Connor
- Esme Macgregor
- Chantal Drenthe
- Gary Pyper
- Shlomi Eiger
- Ronit Tal
- Josh Wilde
- Alice-Mae Mayall
- Jane Hankin
Fees and booking information
We follow strict government health and safety guidelines for all short courses at Kingston University.
- Date: TBC
- Time: TBC
- View our terms and conditions for booking a short course
- Course fee: Please contact us for our updated course fee
- VAT: No VAT is charged for our open short courses
Keep an eye out for future course dates, or contact us to register your interest. For more information on how to apply for the programme, please visit our dedicated website.
Ready to explore your inventive side?
Get in touch to find out more on how to join the programme.
