Computational thinking
Decomposition, patterns and algorithms — breaking problems into clear steps.
Applied Computer Science Academy
Real coding for young creators.
Students develop computational thinking and learn real programming through live, educator-led projects using Python, HTML, CSS and JavaScript. They plan, code, test and improve practical digital creations while building logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Enrolment OpenYears 3–8Live online via Zoom8 sessions per termMax 8 students per instructor$380 per term
Enrol Now Program overview
Applied Computer Science Academy
The Applied Computer Science Academy is our established, instructor-led and project-based computer science pathway. Beginners start on the beginner track — no prior coding experience is required.
Students learn to break down problems, plan algorithms, write code, debug and communicate their solutions. Progression happens across multiple terms: students build depth step by step rather than covering every language in a single term.
What students learn
Skills built through real practice.
Programming foundations
Sequences, variables, loops, conditions, inputs and outputs, and functions as appropriate.
Python
Guided programs and simple applications for problem solving.
HTML & CSS
Structure and style web pages.
JavaScript
Interactive behaviour, events and responding to user input.
Testing & debugging
Finding errors, testing ideas and refining solutions.
Technology & AI foundations
Age-appropriate foundational AI concepts and responsible technology use — clearly distinguished from the rule-based programming students write.
Explanation & reflection
Explaining how a program works and reflecting on design decisions.
Learning progression
Growth across terms.
Discover
Guided fundamentals of coding logic.
Develop
Syntax, logic and debugging.
Create
Purposeful digital projects.
Extend
Advanced Python, web and interactive programming as appropriate.
Project examples
What students create.
Examples vary with level and term; not every project runs every term.
- Python programs
- Logic exercises
- Simple applications
- Web pages
- JavaScript interactions
Why families choose this program
Purposeful learning, real guidance.
- Live guidance from an educator
- Real programming languages
- Small-group coaching
- Practical projects
- Structured progression
- Purposeful use of technology
Program format
- Years 3–8
- Live online via Zoom — instructor-led, never pre-recorded
- Eight sessions per term
- Maximum eight students per instructor
- BYOD friendly
- No prior experience needed for the beginner track
2027 online classes
Weekly classes · Melbourne time
- Live Online via ZoomThursday, 6–7 pm
2027 term dates
- Term 1Thu 4 February – Thu 25 March 2027
- Term 2Thu 15 April – Thu 3 June 2027
- Term 3Thu 15 July – Thu 2 September 2027
- Term 4Thu 7 October – Thu 25 November 2027
$380 per term (8 sessions)
Enrol NowForge Learning App
The Forge Learning App supports practice between sessions with learning resources, project work and reflection, alongside live classes.
Explore the Forge DemoNew to coding?
Begin with a friendly, low-pressure Starter Session ($50). It helps your child try the learning and helps us recommend the right pathway.
Book a Starter SessionYour Credential Pathway
Learning that leads somewhere beyond attendance.
This course contributes towards the relevant Academy credential pathway. Students who complete the required learning and demonstrate the assessment standard may become eligible for certification.
- 01
Learn
Complete the Academy program.
- 02
Practise
Develop capability through challenges and guided activities.
- 03
Demonstrate
Complete an applied project or performance.
- 04
Assess
Complete the relevant practical assessment and/or certification examination.
- 05
Credential
Earn the relevant Innovate Forge Academy credential when requirements are successfully demonstrated.
Established exam pathway
Credential opportunity
Computer Science Certification Level 1
Assessment
Knowledge Exam + Short Coding Challenge
Demonstrate
Complete a short coding challenge and explain the logic, syntax and debugging decisions behind it.
Next step
Computer Science Certification Level 2
Explore Certification Pathway- Pathway
- Computer Science
- Current program
- Applied Computer Science Academy
- Assessment type
- Model B — Exam + Practical · Knowledge Exam + Short Coding Challenge
- Exam requirement
- Computer science certification examination (75% minimum pass standard)
- Prerequisite
- Readiness confirmed by the educator
- Next credential
- Computer Science Certification Level 2
Where can this learning lead?
- Course
- Coding Challenges
- Short Coding Task
- Certification Exam
- Computer Science Credential
- Advanced Python / Web Development
Learning support
We want every student to participate meaningfully. If your child has additional learning needs, contact us before enrolment so we can discuss the program environment and appropriate support.
NDIS invoicing
We can provide invoices and receipts for self-managed or plan-managed NDIS participants. Email us your NDIS plan type after enrolment.
Explore advanced computer science pathways.
Students can continue into Python, web development and other advanced programming pathways when they are ready. These are guided next steps, not mandatory prerequisites.
Explore the pathwayBuilt on established education experience.
The Applied Computer Science Academy builds on the established coding and computational-thinking experience of Innovate Technology & Robotics Academy and now forms part of the broader Innovate Forge Academy learning model.
Parent FAQs
Questions families ask.
Does my child need prior coding experience?
No. Beginners join the beginner track; experienced students enter at an appropriate level.
Which languages are taught?
Python, HTML, CSS and JavaScript, introduced progressively across terms rather than all in one term.
Does it cover Python and web development?
Yes. Python is used for problem solving and simple applications; HTML, CSS and JavaScript are used to build and add interactivity to web pages.
Are classes live or prerecorded?
Live and instructor-led via Zoom. Classes are never pre-recorded.
How big are the classes?
A maximum of eight students per instructor.
What device is needed?
Classes are BYOD friendly — students use their own computer with an internet connection for Zoom.
How does progression work?
Students move through Discover, Develop, Create and Extend across multiple terms.
What are the fees?
$380 per term for eight sessions.
When are the 2027 classes?
Thursdays, 6:00–7:00pm Melbourne time. Term 1 runs 4 February – 25 March 2027; full term dates are listed above.
Is there a Starter Session?
Yes. A $50 Starter Session helps new families discover the right pathway before enrolling.
How do I enrol?
Use the Enrol Now button to go to our enrolment portal.
Curriculum-connected
Curriculum & capability connections
Applied Computer Science connects with Digital Technologies at school — students learn how algorithms work, then build and debug their own programs.
Practical skills and activities
- Breaking problems into smaller steps before coding
- Writing, testing and debugging programs
- Building a personal project from idea to working version
- Discussing responsible and safe technology use
General capabilities
Digital LiteracyCritical and Creative ThinkingNumeracyEthical Understanding
View Curriculum Connections
Australian Curriculum v9
- Technologies — Digital TechnologiesCore connectionAlgorithms, programming, decomposition and debugging
- MathematicsSupporting connectionLogic, patterns, variables and coordinates
Victorian Curriculum
- Digital Technologies — Creating digital solutions (Victorian Curriculum 2.0)
- Critical and Creative Thinking capability
International references
- CSTA K–12 Computer Science Standards — Algorithms & Programming concepts
- ISTE Standards for Students — Computational Thinker, Innovative Designer
These connections show how the program complements school learning. They are not accreditation or endorsement by any curriculum authority, and participation does not replace school assessment. Schools can request a program-level mapping summary.
Ready to start?
Enrol for 2027 or explore the full Robotics & Computer Science pathway.