Micro Academy was formed in 1986 out of earlier, more broadly based arts and science workshops, from which over a thousand young people from the local communities have launched their education and careers. Many of them have achieved success, and some, eminence in fine arts, film and TV, multimedia, IT, design and graphics, advertising and visual communications. The founder was an educationalist with forty years experience of teaching for higher degrees, first degrees and diplomas. He was awarded the Newton Medal at City University for his lifetime services to education.

Educational Facilities
Micro Academy is a miniature domestic establishment attended by mature students from the University of the Third Age (U3A) and sometimes by younger pupils studying art, computer art and design, multimedia, web-site design and business. Facilities include a library, eight computer installations, film and video-making equipment and two garden studios.

Work Experience
Whenever possible, Micro Academy allowed its students to gain in-house work experience at the earliest possible age, by allowing them to function within the Academy in a specific role, for example, as a computer technician or computer programmer working on one of our own products. Some students have launched their own businesses, using our premises, computer facilities, phones and business advice to minimise overheads and reduce the risk of early failure.