do you really need school

I know for a fact that in Ireland, the top design places need a diploma/degree otherwise your CV get's chucked out. I know how to use lots of programs, and i'm about to go over to England for a degree in digital animation. The companies want degrees because it means you have spent 3 or 4 years working hard for it and not only do you know to use the programs, you learn how to visually communicate and the fundamentals of design. Like Dek said, take a look at some small courses, or why not go to college as a mature student?

This is somewhat off the art topic but I am a design engoneer. I started out 3 years ago in the shop and just climbed up to the office. I showed them I had knowledge in the field and I knew my AutoCAD, Solidworks, and some other design software. Also, what was most important to them was I had job knowledge. Not from a school but they gave it to me for the 3 years I was there. I have also dabbled around with some product sheets we have distributed. So to me, I don't think schoolling was needed. Maybe I would get paid more but I am happy where I am now.