According to Animation Magazine Sony Pictures is teaming up with Animation Mentor to pump up their IPAX education program. This three month long mentor program will be available to top students in the IPAX program, pairing them up with a Sony Animation and Imageworks artist for intensive training.

The program is designed specifically for advanced students who are working on a range of special projects including short films, animation or visual effects. Mentors will give students individual input and feedback to help guide their work and perfect their skills over the course of the program.

And since Animation Mentor has been the most talked about school dedicated to the craft of animation, it is a savvy choice on Sony’s part to use their model for their revamp of IPAX.

Animation Mentor’s innovative mentor/apprentice teaching model and online learning platform will enable Sony mentors to work with students to help them develop their skills and grow their craft. Tools include live video conference Q&A sessions with mentors, video guest lectures with industry experts and eCritiques consisting of video commentary on student work.

Only time will tell what kind of digital magic this training will have on upcoming Sony Pictures.