Discover Makers Academy: London's coding bootcamp shaping future software developers with hands-on training, holistic well-being focus, and personalized career support.
Makers Academy: Your Path to Becoming a Software Developer
Makers Academy is a London-based coding bootcamp established in 2012, aiming to equip students with the skills necessary for a career in software development. The school provides an intensive, immersive learning experience through a 12-week full-time bootcamp that covers fundamental programming languages and practices, including JavaScript and Ruby. With a unique approach to education, Makers Academy prioritizes holistic well-being and personalized career support for its students through hands-on mentorship and a supportive community.
- Founded in 2012, Makers Academy was the result of a need for skilled developers in the software industry, created by Evgeny Shadchnev and Rob Johnson.
- Located in London, the academy offers both in-person and online learning formats, allowing students from around the globe to participate.
- The curriculum includes a 12-week software engineering bootcamp that teaches JavaScript and Ruby programming languages.
- Makers Academy emphasizes pair programming and collaborative learning, fostering teamwork and interpersonal skills among students.
- Students can engage in holistic health practices such as yoga and meditation, to support their mental well-being throughout the rigorous course.
- The admissions process includes a technical test and interview to assess applicants' coding skills and problem-solving abilities.
- Upon graduation, students receive continued career support, including mentorship and access to an extensive alumni network.
- Makers Academy graduates boast an average starting salary of £33,000, with potential earnings increasing significantly with experience.
Subjects Taught at Makers Academy
The primary subject taught at Makers Academy is software engineering, focusing on developing the practical skills needed for entry-level developer roles. This 12-week program provides students with a solid foundation in programming as well as exposure to collaborative working methods.
- JavaScript: Students learn how to build interactive web applications using JavaScript, a vital language in front-end development. Mastery of JavaScript opens up numerous opportunities in web development and app design.
- Ruby: Ruby programming language is taught to provide students with the essential skills in back-end development. Knowledge of Ruby can enhance job prospects in developing web applications.
- Agile Practices: The curriculum covers Agile methodologies, helping students learn effective project management techniques. Understanding Agile improves employability by aligning students with modern development practices.
- Pair Programming: This practice involves students coding in pairs, fostering teamwork and enhancing problem-solving skills. The collaborative nature of pair programming prepares students for real-world work environments.
- Software Fundamentals: Early weeks focus on core programming principles, ensuring students understand object-oriented programming and foundational concepts. Mastery of fundamentals is crucial for success in any coding career.
- Project-based Learning: Participants work on engineering projects that culminate in a portfolio of work. Having tangible projects to showcase enhances job-seeking prospects after graduation.
- Holistic Well-Being: Importance is placed on well-being through wellness practices integrated into the curriculum. These practices help maintain a balanced approach to intensive learning.
Top Courses and Bootcamps at Makers Academy
Makers Academy offers several high-demand courses designed to equip students with specific software development skills. Among these, the 12-week full-time bootcamp is the most popular for its comprehensive coverage of essential programming languages and software practices.
- Makers Academy Bootcamp: This immersive course teaches both JavaScript and Ruby over 12 weeks, focusing on object-oriented programming and practical applications. Graduates emerge ready to tackle real-world coding challenges.
- Ruby Programming: A focused track that delves deeper into Ruby, providing a more robust understanding of back-end development. Knowledge of Ruby is desirable for many web development positions.
- JavaScript for Development: This course hones JavaScript skills for both front-end and back-end development projects. Students benefit from a diverse skill set that appeals to employers.
- Agile Methodologies: Intensive training in Agile practices prepares students for collaborative work environments. Understanding Agile is a sought-after skill in software development jobs.
- Pair Programming Workshop: This hands-on course reinforces collaboration and coding skills through practical exercises. Participants gain confidence in their coding abilities while working alongside peers.
Cost of Classes at Makers Academy
The tuition for attending Makers Academy is set at £8,000, with an £800 deposit required upon acceptance into the program. While there is no detailed scholarship program, women and gender minorities can receive a discount of £500 to encourage greater diversity in tech.
Students gain considerable value from the comprehensive course offerings, personalized mentorship, and career support services. Graduates are equipped with in-demand programming skills and typically earn an average starting salary of £33,000, which serves as a solid return on their educational investment. By participating in career coaching, students receive tailored guidance throughout their job search, enhancing their employability in the competitive tech market.
Benefits of Joining Makers Academy
Makers Academy offers several advantages to its students, making it an attractive option for those pursuing a career in software development. The school's emphasis on holistic education and practical experience promotes a well-rounded learning environment.
- Intensive Curriculum: The bootcamp’s rigorous program ensures that students gain comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience rapidly. This fast-paced learning prepares them for the fast-evolving tech industry.
- Career Support: Ongoing mentorship and personalized career coaching are available to graduates, increasing their chances of landing desirable positions in tech. Graduates benefit from an active alumni network that can facilitate job opportunities.
- Community Building: Students engage in a collaborative learning environment, fostering relationships that often lead to lifelong professional networks. These connections can be invaluable in navigating career development.
- Holistic Well-Being Focus: By integrating wellness practices into the curriculum, the school helps maintain students’ mental health and promotes a balanced lifestyle. This focus enriches the overall learning experience.
- Flexible Learning Options: With hybrid and online choices, students can select the learning format that best suits their needs. This adaptability enhances accessibility for a broader range of students.
Reviews of Makers Academy
Students have generally provided positive feedback about their experiences at Makers Academy, noting the intensive learning environment and supportive community. Reviews frequently highlight the school's focus on holistic well-being and personalized mentorship.
Pros:
Reviewers appreciate the strong community, rigorous curriculum, and comprehensive career support services offered at the academy. Many express satisfaction with their ability to transition to tech careers following the program.Cons:
Some students mention that the peer review aspect of coding can lead to confusion at times, as less experienced learners help evaluate each other’s work. Others note that the pace can be overwhelming for those who are new to coding.Are the Courses at Makers Academy Worth It?
Determining whether the courses at Makers Academy provide sufficient value involves considering the cost of tuition against the skills and opportunities gained from the program. With an average starting salary of £33,000 for graduates, the investment of £8,000 can lead to a significant return on investment within a short period.
Ultimately, the supportive learning environment, hands-on mentorship, and rigorous training prepare students well for available job opportunities in the technology sector. However, potential students should weigh their current skill level, commitment to an intensive learning experience, and career aspirations before enrolling.
Many graduates report transformative experiences, making a strong case for the value of the academy's offerings. Each student’s circumstances differ, so prospective applicants should assess how well their goals align with the resources and education provided by Makers Academy.