James Leach
Game Art & Animation Lecturer
Bio
Building Playable Worlds
James Leach is a Game Art and Animation Lecturer at SAE Liverpool. With both academic training and professional industry experience, he brings up-to-date knowledge of modern game pipelines, tools and production methods into the classroom.
Before joining SAE, James worked as a 3D Artist at Starlight Games, contributing to House of Golf 2. His industry background gives students insight into real production environments and the expectations of professional game studios.
Industry Experience
James spent a year in the games industry as a 3D artist, working on live projects and learning the realities of professional development pipelines. This hands-on experience allows him to teach students not just theory, but the practical workflows used in modern studios.
Community and Showcases
Alongside teaching, James has hosted student showcase events at Pixel Bar, giving learners the chance to present their games to the public and receive real player feedback. These events help students build confidence, test their work in live environments and experience the excitement of public playtesting.
Creative Approach
James believes no two days in the creative industries are ever the same. He is inspired by seeing students overcome challenges and develop their skills, and he is passionate about passing on knowledge to the next generation of game artists.
By combining academic study with industry practice, he helps students understand evolving technologies, production pipelines and the realities of the modern games sector.
Player Profile
Favourite tool?
Unreal Engine 5.
Biggest inspiration?
My high school and university lecturers who pushed me to improve.
