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Academy Class: School Overview, Courses & Pricing

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Academy Class: A Comprehensive Overview

Academy Class is a creative training institute specializing in various fields including design, web development, and video production. Founded in London in 2006, the school aims to foster a community of innovative minds through short-term courses that equip participants with essential skills needed in the creative industry. Offering both in-person and live online classes, Academy Class provides a flexible approach to learning tailored to different skill levels.

  • Established in 2006, Academy Class focuses on software training and creative skills development in fields like graphic design and web development.
  • The school is headquartered in London, with additional training centers in Manchester, offering accessible in-person courses.
  • Courses can also be taken live online, allowing for real-time interaction and learning from anywhere in the world.
  • Academy Class emphasizes a community-focused learning environment, encouraging collaboration among students and professionals.
  • Classes come in various formats, enabling students to choose based on their learning preferences—whether in-person or remotely.
  • The curriculum includes both beginner and advanced courses, ensuring inclusivity for all skill levels.
  • Students can participate in free skills assessments to identify which courses best fit their abilities and learning goals.
  • Academy Class has received reviews praising its passionate instructors, though it has faced criticism regarding communication and organizational issues.

Subjects Taught at Academy Class

Academy Class offers a diverse range of subjects aimed at enhancing creative and technical skills in various industries. The curriculum includes essential software and design principles that cater to participants seeking both beginner and advanced knowledge. Each subject is structured to not only teach the tools, but also foster critical thinking and creativity in application.

  • Graphic Design: This subject covers the principles of visual communication, including typography, layout, and color theory. Students learn to use tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to create compelling visual content.
  • Video Editing: Focusing on editing techniques and software like Adobe Premiere Pro, this subject empowers students to produce professional-grade video content. Participants acquire skills relevant to both film production and digital media.
  • Web Development: This subject teaches fundamental coding languages like HTML and CSS, alongside frameworks like JavaScript. Students gain the ability to build and maintain websites, which is critical in today’s digital landscape.
  • 3D Animation: Utilizing software such as Autodesk Maya, this subject introduces students to the world of 3D modeling and animation. Participants learn to create dynamic animations for film, games, and other media.
  • UX/UI Design: This subject focuses on user experience principles and interface design, preparing students to create intuitive and engaging digital products. Participants learn to conduct usability tests and gather user feedback effectively.
  • Digital Music Production: Students explore software like Ableton for music creation and sound design. This subject equips them with the skills to produce, mix, and master their own tracks.
  • Autodesk Software: This subject includes training on software like AutoCAD and Revit, which are essential in architectural design and engineering. Students learn to produce precision drawings and visualizations.
  • Photography: Covering both technical and creative aspects, this subject helps students master composition, lighting, and editing techniques. Participants gain proficiency in using cameras and editing software for their projects.

Top Courses and Bootcamps at Academy Class

Academy Class offers numerous courses designed to target specific skills in the creative and tech industries. The five highlighted courses provide in-depth training meant to align with the demands of the contemporary job market. Each course aims to enhance participants' understanding and application of essential tools relevant to their chosen fields.

  • Adobe Photoshop: Beginner: This course is structured for those with no prior Photoshop experience. Participants learn essential skills in photo editing, including retouching techniques and creating compositions, which are valuable for graphic design projects.
  • Adobe After Effects: Zero to Hero: This comprehensive course covers both beginner and advanced techniques in motion graphics and animations. Students learn everything from the interface to creating complex animations, which are essential in video production.
  • UX Design Bootcamp: Aimed at those looking to enter the UX design field, this bootcamp covers user research, wireframing, and prototyping. It equips participants with the skills needed to create user-centered designs for digital products.
  • HTML & CSS Class: This course teaches essential coding languages necessary for building websites. Participants gain hands-on experience creating web pages, making them proficient in web development.
  • 3D Animation with Autodesk Maya: This course is designed for those interested in learning 3D modeling and animation. Students create amazing 3D renderings and animations, which are foundational skills in various media industries.

Cost of Classes at Academy Class

Courses at Academy Class typically range in cost from £200 to £1,000, depending on the length and complexity of the course. While beginner classes tend to be more affordable, advanced subjects may reflect their specialized nature with higher fees. Overall, participants gain valuable skills applicable in creative industries, often experiencing a strong return on their educational investment.

  • For instance, a beginner Photoshop course costs around £397, providing foundational skills important for graphic design careers.
  • More advanced courses, like the After Effects Zero to Hero program, priced at £897, include extensive content that prepares students for practical applications in media.
  • Taking advantage of free refresher courses available for 18 months post-completion can enhance retention of valuable information learned during classes.
  • Students can benefit from real-time interaction in live online courses without incurring travel expenses, thereby maximizing their learning experience.
  • Discounts available when using select cryptocurrency can also provide savings for tech-savvy students.
  • Overall, participants report that the quality of instruction and opportunities for skill application justify the costs incurred.

Benefits of Taking Classes at Academy Class

Taking classes at Academy Class provides participants with access to valuable resources and community support that enrich the learning experience. Each aspect of the academy's structure is designed with student needs in mind, promoting engagement and skill mastery. Here are several key benefits:

  • Small Class Sizes: Classes are typically kept small, allowing for personalized attention from instructors, which can enhance the learning process.
  • Passionate Instructors: Academy Class is known for its knowledgeable and dedicated instructors who are invested in student success.
  • Flexible Learning Options: Students can choose between in-person and online classes, accommodating different schedules and preferences.
  • Community Environment: The academy fosters a collaborative atmosphere where students can network and learn from one another.
  • Refresher Courses: The option to retake classes within 18 months of enrollment offers continuous learning opportunities and reinforces knowledge retention.

Academy Class Reviews

Reviews of Academy Class reflect a mix of positive and negative experiences from students. While many highlight the quality of the instruction and the engaging teaching methods, there are also reports of organizational issues that can detract from the overall experience. Balancing the feedback presents a clearer picture of the school's performance.

  • Pros: Positive aspects often noted include small class sizes, passionate and knowledgeable instructors, community engagement, flexible teaching formats, and the accessibility of refresher courses.
  • Cons: Common criticisms revolve around communication difficulties with staff, challenges in securing refunds, and reported technical issues during online and in-person classes.

Are the Courses Worth It? Assessing the Value of Academy Class

When evaluating the worth of courses at Academy Class, it's important to consider the investment made in relation to the skills gained. The cost of courses ranges from £200 to £1,000, which can seem significant, but the knowledge acquired is often immediately applicable in the creative job market. Many students find the practical skills learned are paralleled by the quality of instruction and community support, enhancing the overall value of their education.

While the costs may pose a barrier for some, the flexibility in course offerings, combined with opportunities for ongoing learning through refresher courses, can provide a strong return on investment. Moreover, the prospect of enhancing one's career prospects with new, relevant skills in design, development, or media often outweighs the initial financial commitment. When considering enrollment, potential students should weigh their career goals against course costs and the likelihood of applying the newly acquired skills in the job market.

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