The Bristol-based animation studio has appointed Mark Simon Hewis to head up its Aardman Academy training facility in a new role designed to support and develop upcoming talent, and provide opportunities for students to connect with the animation industry. Hewis will oversee a 12-week online training program that launched in November 2020 with a course in stop motion. He initially joined Aardman in August as producer, and was instrumental in setting up the program. Hewis was promoted to head of Aardman Academy in March. Prior to joining the company, Hewis worked on multiple film projects for Channel 4 and the BBC. His 2007 short film