Where to send your child to learn programming in Chisinau

In the era of the digital revolution, programming has evolved from a specialised skill to a universal language that opens up new horizons of creativity, innovation and self-expression. Teaching children programming allows them to talk to machines, create amazing apps and games, and automate even the most complex tasks. It's a way to develop logical thinking, problem-solving skills and a better understanding of the world around them. We talked about the pros of teaching kids to program in this article Programming for children in Moldova: why it is important.

In Chisinau, there are many options for teaching programming to children - from specialised IT academies to school clubs. This article opens the door to the world of programming for children. 

1. IT training centres and academies

Tekwill Academy is at the forefront of IT education for young people. This innovative academy offers a wide range of children's programming courses for different ages and skills. The flagship course, Programming for Kids, immerses students aged 9-14 in the wonderful world of Python. Advanced teaching techniques and a hands-on approach allow them to learn how to create their own applications, games and programmes from an early age. For advanced students, Unity game development, web development and other courses are offered. With experienced teachers and state-of-the-art equipment, Tekwill Academy is paving the way to the future for a new generation of programmers.

IT Step Academy is a reliable option for young coders, offering courses in the basics of Python and Unity for students in grades 6-11. In a friendly atmosphere, experienced teachers introduce children to the basics of programming, develop their logical thinking and get them involved in creating their first project. IT Step Academy provides an excellent opportunity for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the world of programming.

Da Vinci School of Coding this school is suitable for those who want to delve deep into programming. Children from 7 to 16 years old can choose programmes such as game development in Python, Java, C++ and Unity. Students work in small groups, assuming a personalised approach of teachers. At the end of the training, a certificate confirming the acquired skills is issued.

Robocode - a robotics school in Chisinau that offers a wide range of courses and programmes for children and adults. It was founded in 2014 and has since trained more than 1000 students. Robocode offers courses in robot programming, electronics, 3D modelling and other robot-related topics. Students participate in events such as robot competitions and hackathons. The school employs experienced teachers who use the latest teaching methods. The school is also equipped with modern equipment such as robot kits, 3D printers, etc.

GeekBrains - is an online platform offering a wide range of courses in programming, design, marketing and other areas. There is a branch of GeekBrains in Chisinau that specialises in teaching children.

GeekBrains offers courses on:

• programming: Python, Java, C++, Scratch, Minecraft, Roblox Studio,
• 3D modelling: Blender;  
• Graphic design: Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator;
• Web development: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, etc.

The school attracts experienced teachers and the courses have a practical orientation.

Coddy School is an international programming school for children and teenagers from 7 to 17 years old with branches in Chisinau. It offers a wide range of courses in programming, web development, robotics, design and other IT disciplines.

Benefits of Coddy School:

• Experienced Teachers: All teachers in the school have professional teaching and IT experience.
• Interactive classes: Classes are conducted in a playful way, making it easy for children to absorb the material.
• Modern facilities: The school is equipped with modern computers and other equipment necessary for learning.
• Course variety: The school offers a wide range of courses for children with different interests and backgrounds.
• Flexible schedule: Classes are held on weekdays and weekends, you can choose a convenient time for classes.

Impact Academies - a school of programming and digital professions that offers a wide range of courses for children and adults in Chisinau:

• Programming courses: Python, Java, C++, JavaScript, HTML/CSS, PHP, SQL, etc.
• Robotics courses: Arduino, Lego Mindstorms, Raspberry Pi.
• 3D modelling courses: Blender, Maya, 3ds Max.
• Design courses: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign.
• Video editing courses: Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro.
• Other courses: Web Development, Mobile Development, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity.

Benefits of Impact Academies:

• Experienced Teachers: All teachers at the school have a background in Information Technology.
• Modern teaching methods: interactive teaching methods are used to make the learning process interesting and effective.
• Practical Orientation: All courses have a practical orientation, enabling students to acquire the skills required for IT careers.
• Convenient timetable: Classes are held on weekdays and weekends, allowing you to choose a convenient time to study.

2. Online courses and resources

For those who prefer a flexible schedule and distance learning, there are many excellent online programming courses and resources.

Codecademy. This is one of the most famous interactive platforms. Here children can learn serious programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, Ruby, Java and many others in a fun way. Codecademy will help your child take their first steps in the world of programming by combining theory and practice.

Google also offers a series of free online courses for children. A child can master the basic concepts of the Python and HTML/CSS languages under the guidance of an experienced tutor. Theoretical material is accessible even for novice programmers.

3. School clubs and elective courses

For many children, programming circles or elective courses organised directly in the city's schools can be a convenient solution. For example, the Pushkin Theoretical Lyceum and the Lyceum of Information Technologies have long been successfully running sections where children learn the basics of programming in a familiar school environment.  

The main advantages of the school club are free tuition and convenient location. Children do not waste time on long journeys to the other side of the city, but can safely stay after school at their home school. At the same time, classes are taught by qualified teachers who can make programming fun even for the most restless students. Of course, it should be noted that such circles are of a more general nature and do not imply deep specialisation, but for the first steps in the world of IT it may be quite enough.

4. Private tutor  

If your child needs an individual approach and a flexible schedule, it makes sense to consider a private programming tutor. There are many experienced professionals in Chisinau who are ready to provide lessons in both face-to-face and online formats.

The benefits of tutoring are obvious - a personalised programme tailored to your child's specific goals and level. Flexible schedule of lessons, convenient time and place of meeting. All this increases the effectiveness of learning.

On average, the cost of an hour of work with a tutor in Chisinau is 150-300 lei. The final price will depend on the qualification of the tutor, the format of lessons (online or offline) and the chosen direction (Python, Java, C++, etc.). You can find a suitable tutor through specialised presentation websites, forums or thematic groups in social networks.

Choosing a place for your child to learn programming is a serious and responsible step, because you will help him/her to determine the way to the future. There are different options in Chisinau, where every family can find the most suitable form of training, taking into account age, interests, skills and financial possibilities. 

In the age of the digital revolution, these skills become invaluable knowledge, developing logical thinking, creativity and the ability to solve complex problems. Learning programming from an early age lays the foundation for future achievement and success in various fields of endeavour. Choose the best option and help your child master the fascinating language of the future.