Software Academy

Software Academy: accredited coding for children and teenagers in the UK

Software Academy is a British academy specialising in teaching coding and digital creativity to children and teenagers aged between 6 and 16. Its courses, designed by university lecturers and taught by expert tutors, are accredited by NCFE, a UK certification organisation. The academy presents itself as the only centre in the country approved by NCFE to offer accredited qualifications in coding, games and design for minors.

The offering combines four study formats: group classes during term time, private one-to-one tuition, holiday camps and self-guided courses with videos and tutor support. All formats are delivered online and, according to the academy's information, do not require a long-term contract.

Courses and areas of specialisation

The catalogue covers technical and creative disciplines, with indicative minimum ages starting at 6 for introductory courses and at 9 for most advanced programmes:

• 3D game design and development: creating games with Unreal Engine, the technology used in titles such as Fortnite, Star Wars, Batman and Rocket League.
• Games coding: developing your own video games with Python.
• Artificial intelligence and machine learning: designing AI systems beyond writing prompts.
• Roblox: designing and coding games in Roblox with the Lua language.
• Unity: designing and developing video games with Unity.
• Computing basics (STEM): introductory course for children from age 6.
• 3D modelling and animation: motion graphics and animation with Blender.
• Digital media design: photo, art and video editing with Adobe applications.
• Minecraft modding: modifying the game and creating your own add-ons.
• Architectural visualisation: 3D visualisation course aimed at architecture and civil engineering.
• Roblox game design: Lua coding applied to game design.

In addition, the academy organises age-specific courses, from 6 to 16 years old, and offers a free trial for new students.

Methodology and student profile

Teaching is based on tools that, according to the academy, are the same ones used by university students and industry professionals. The curriculum is developed by university educators and approved by NCFE, which reviews and validates the courses annually. The academy maintains that students develop a portfolio of projects that showcases their real skills, including computational thinking and coding.

Recognition and accreditations

The differentiating factor that the academy itself highlights is its status as the only provider of NCFE-accredited coding courses for children in the UK. This accreditation means that students can obtain recognised qualifications upon completing the courses. The academy also mentions that its curriculum is designed by a university lecturer and that the teaching team consists of expert tutors.

Among the milestones it publishes are the graduation ceremonies of 2019, 2024 and 2025, as well as a section of success stories from former students.

Language and scope of activity

The activity is delivered online for students in the UK, aged between 6 and 16. The academy is based in London, at 71 Cricklewood Broadway, and offers telephone and email support. The website warns of a temporary issue with the phone line and requests that enquiries be directed by email while it is resolved.

Location and contact

71 Cricklewood Broadway London NW2 3JR · Phone: 020 3004 8383 · Email: info@softwareacademy.co.uk