New training programme from XR Stories supports creative technology skills development

A new training programme from XR Stories is supporting people in York and North Yorkshire to develop skills in creative technology. 

Over the next two years, Extending XR will provide free creative technology skills training to enable learners and tutors in the region to harness the potential of digital tools and technologies including game engines and performance capture technologies.

The first series of short workshops from the programme are aimed at people with a creative role or hobby who are interested in learning how to combine their creative skills with digital technologies. Participants will learn how to create new content, experiences and stories using 3D scanning/modelling, basic animation, environment creation, and virtual camera control.

Taking place at venues in Harrogate, Malton, Richmond, Scarborough, Skipton, Whitby and York from March 2026, the workshops are suitable for people from diverse backgrounds and roles, including those with little or no experience of working with creative technology.  

Joe Rees-Jones, Creative Technologist at XR Stories, will deliver training for the Extending XR programme.

Joe comments: “We understand that advances in technology can seem overwhelming and out of reach and so we’ve designed the first Extending XR workshops using free software that people can continue to use after the training on personal devices such as smart phones and tablets. 

“Our aim is for participants to complete the workshops with the skills and confidence to start integrating creative technology into their day-to-day activities and to benefit from the new opportunities that technology can bring.”

David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire says: “”Advancements in technology should open doors, not create barriers. That’s why I’m proud to back Extending XR, which brings more digital training to our communities.  

“Whether people want to introduce a digital element to their creative work or learn how to use new technology for fun, this is about providing the right tools people need to advance their career right here in York and North Yorkshire.  

“By investing in these skills today, we are making sure that our creative sector can stay ahead of the game for the future.”

Find out more about Extending XR.

Extending XR is supported by David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire and funded by the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority. 

Video produced by Hewitt & Walker Video production York.

Published on 19 January 2026