Australia · Ages 13 to adult · Modern C++

C++ classes online

C++ gives a programmer control that most languages hide: where data lives in memory, when it is copied, and how much each line costs. That control is why it is used for games, simulations, contest programming and systems software, and why small mistakes can be expensive. In our classes, Australian teenagers and adults work through modern C++ over live video, starting with a first program and ending with the standard library and their own classes. This page shows what we cover, measures what one missing character costs, and explains where C++ fits for Australian students and adults.

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Live teaching since 2020 · 10,000+ students · Modern C++, measured

In short

C++ classes online teach the C++ language: types, functions, references and memory, the standard library, object-oriented design and writing fast code, usually in modern C++17 or later. C++ is one of the four languages allowed in the Australian Informatics Olympiad. Modern Age Coders runs these lessons over live video for learners across Australia, either in a small level-matched group or privately, beginning with a free class.

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Three C++ courses

Chosen by age and goal. Each card opens the syllabus.

C++ for Teens course thumbnail

CPPA / 01

C++ for Teens

Ages 13 to 18 from zero: fundamentals, the STL, algorithms and real games.

Open the syllabus →
C++ Masterclass course thumbnail

CPPA / 02

C++ Masterclass

For 18 and over: fundamentals to modern C++ and systems programming.

Open the syllabus →
C Programming for Beginners course thumbnail

CPPA / 03

C Programming for Beginners

Pointers, memory and structs: the C underneath C++, for adults.

Open the syllabus →

Why C++

Control, speed and responsibility

C++ trades convenience for control. Learners who understand that trade write code that is both fast and correct.

What C++ makes visible
IdeaIn Python or JavaScriptIn C++
TypesDecided while the program runsDeclared and checked when compiling
CopiesMostly hiddenEvery copy is a choice you make
MemoryManaged for youManaged by the language rules and by you
SpeedGood enough for most tasksClose to what the hardware allows
ErrorsOften at run timeMany at compile time, some very subtle

In school computing

Australian Curriculum content description AC9TDI10P09 asks Years 9 and 10 students to "implement, modify and debug modular programs, applying selected algorithms and data structures, including in an object-oriented programming language".

C++ is a full object-oriented language, so it can carry that work well beyond what the curriculum requires.

In competitions

The Australian Informatics Olympiad lists its languages plainly: "Allowed languages are C, C++, Java or Python 3."

Students preparing for contests should also read our competitive programming page.

A worked example

The ampersand that saved 2.7 seconds

In C++ a function can receive a copy of its argument or a reference to the original. With big data the difference is dramatic; with small data it is nothing.

We loaded the 17,218 station-name rows (383 different stations, repeated across months) from Transport for NSW's monthly usage file into a std::vector<std::string> and wrote two identical counting functions. One takes std::vector<std::string> v, so every call copies all 17,218 strings. The other takes const std::vector<std::string>& v, a reference to the original. Each was called 2,000 times; we kept the fastest of five runs.

Timing two ways of passing data (our benchmark, g++ -O2, 14 October 2026)
Function parameterDataCallsFastest time
std::vector<std::string> (by value)17,218 strings2,0002,766 ms
const std::vector<std::string>& (by const reference)17,218 strings2,00031.3 ms
int (by value)one number50,000,00021.6 ms fastest
const int& (by const reference)one number50,000,00020.8 ms fastest

Big data: copy costs

Copying the vector on every call made the function about 88 times slower. The counting itself was the same; almost all the time went on copying strings.

Small data: no gain

For a single int, the two versions swapped places between runs, from about 21 to 45 ms either way. Passing a small value by value is just as good, and simpler.

The rule learners keep

Pass large objects you only read by const reference; pass small built-in types by value. Then measure, because compilers and machines differ.

What a reference is

cppreference describes a reference declaration as one that "Declares a named variable as a reference, that is, an alias to an already-existing object or function".

It adds that "References are not objects", which is why passing one does not copy the data.

Why const matters too

A plain reference would let the function change the caller's vector. Adding const promises it will not, and the compiler enforces the promise.

Learners try removing const, then changing the vector inside the function, and read the compiler error.

Sources, read 14 October 2026: cppreference, reference declaration; data from Transport for NSW, station monthly usage (Creative Commons Attribution). The benchmark and timings are our own.

What we teach

Modern C++, in a sensible order

We teach the safe, modern parts first and the sharp edges once learners can see why they matter.

Topics in our C++ classes
StageTopicsA project
FoundationsTypes, input and output, conditions, loops, functionsA unit converter that rejects bad input
The standard librarystd::vector, std::string, std::map, algorithmsA word counter for a long text
References and memoryReferences, const, scope, object lifetimeThe copy benchmark on this page
ClassesConstructors, member functions, encapsulationA small bank account or inventory class
PerformanceMeasuring, choosing data structures, complexitySpeeding up a slow program without changing its output

Why not start with pointers?

Raw pointers and manual memory are important, but modern C++ offers safer tools for most tasks. Beginners who start with the standard library write working programs sooner and make fewer memory mistakes.

Pointers come once references and object lifetime are clear.

Compiler messages as teachers

C++ compilers catch many mistakes before a program runs, but their messages can be long. Learners practise reading them from the first line that mentions their own code.

It is one of the most useful habits in the language.

Where it is used

Who learns C++ and why

Learners come to C++ for different reasons. The course adapts the projects; the language stays the same.

Common reasons Australians take C++ classes
LearnerGoalWhere to look next
Secondary studentContests such as the AIO, or stretching beyond schoolAIO preparation and competitive programming pages
University studentA unit that uses C or C++, or systems interestThe adult C++ and C courses
Game-curious teenUnderstanding how games run fastC++ for Teens and game programming
Working adultPerformance-sensitive or embedded workThe C++ Masterclass

School students heading for the olympiad should read AIO preparation. Learners interested in games can see the game programming course. Those who would rather start with an easier language can begin with JavaScript classes or Python.

Compiler errors

Turning long error messages into short fixes

C++ compilers report many mistakes before the program runs. Their messages can be long, so learners practise reading them.

Common beginner errors and what they usually mean
Message mentionsUsual causeUsual fix
was not declared in this scopeA typo, a missing include or a variable used outside its blockCheck the spelling and where it was declared
expected a semicolonThe previous line is missing its semicolonLook one line above the reported one
no matching function for callArguments of the wrong type or numberCompare the call with the function's parameters
discards qualifiersChanging something passed as constRemove the change or make a copy
undefined referenceA function declared but never defined or linkedWrite the function body or add the file to the build

Read from your own code

Errors about the standard library often run to dozens of lines. The useful line is usually the first one that names a file the learner wrote.

Learners highlight that line before reading anything else.

Warnings are hints

Turning on compiler warnings catches mistakes that are legal but probably wrong, such as an unused variable or a comparison between signed and unsigned values.

We compile with warnings on from the first lesson.

Getting started

Setting up for C++ in the first lesson

C++ needs a compiler as well as an editor. The first lesson gets both working so the learner can practise between lessons.

What a learner needs
ItemNotes
A computerWindows, macOS or Linux; a school or home laptop is fine
A compilerA free, modern C++ compiler set up together in lesson one
An editorA free code editor with C++ highlighting
A practice folderOne folder per project, kept under version control later

Why we compile from the command line first

Running the compiler by hand shows what an editor's build button hides: source file in, program out, errors in between.

Once that is clear, editor shortcuts make sense.

Timing on your own machine

Learners rerun the copy benchmark from this page on their own computer. The exact times will differ; the point is to see the gap between copying and referencing for themselves.

Measuring for yourself is the habit we want.

Learners who already know another language usually move faster through the first stage and spend more time on references, object lifetime and the standard library, where C++ differs most from Python, Java or JavaScript.

Progress

Four levels of C++ skill

A learner moves on once a project shows the level has been reached.

From first program to fast, correct code
LevelWhat you can do
1. BeginnerWrite programs with loops, functions and input checks
2. Library userSolve problems with vectors, strings, maps and standard algorithms
3. Careful programmerUse references and const correctly and explain object lifetimes
4. Performance-mindedMeasure a program, find the slow part and fix it without breaking it

Is C++ too hard for a first language?

It is harder than Python, but motivated teens and adults can start with it. Many learn Python first and move to C++ once loops and functions feel natural.

The free class helps decide.

Which compiler and editor?

Any modern compiler and a free editor. We help set them up in the first lesson, on Windows, macOS or Linux.

Nothing has to be bought.

The catalogue

C++ and related courses

Laid out by age and by stage; the trial lesson settles which one comes first.

I

C++

Teens and adults

CPPA / CPP / 03

C Programming for Beginners

Pointers and memory, 18+.

Open the syllabus
II

Algorithms

Where C++ shines

CPPA / ALG / 01

Problem Solving for Teens

Logic first, then structures.

Open the syllabus

CPPA / ALG / 02

DSA Course for Adults

Trees, graphs and complexity in depth.

Open the syllabus
III

Other languages

Alongside or before

CPPA / OTH / 03

Java Course for College

Core Java to Spring Boot, 18+.

Open the syllabus

How lessons run

C++ lessons on your schedule

Teaching happens from India during the hours that line up with Australian afternoons and evenings, booked in your own state's clock and moved when daylight saving changes.

After school

For teens in term time.

Evening

For uni students and adults, by arrangement.

Weekend

Longer projects and reviews.

Free first class

A compiler set up and a first program running.

Group size

Between five and ten classmates, all at a similar stage.

One to one

For a contest, a uni unit or a project.

Measured code

Learners time their programs, as on this page.

Compiler errors read

Every error message is read, not guessed at.

Hands on keys

Every line is typed by the learner, with the teacher steering.

Student work

Student projects online

Apps and sites made by our learners. The student labs hold many more.

NutriLife AI nutrition coach project screenshot

AI and ML

NutriLife

An AI nutrition coach that reads what you eat and works you toward a target.

by Bhavya · Open it

Misti AI chatbot for maths and coding screenshot

AI and ML

Misti

A chatbot that answers mathematics and programming questions, built and deployed by a student.

by Harshit · Open it

GuardianX AI internet safety assistant screenshot

AI and ML

GuardianX

An assistant that helps a young person recognise unsafe situations online.

by Vivaan · Open it

SkyCast weather forecast application screenshot

Web app

SkyCast

A weather forecasting site with live conditions for any location.

by Krish

Fees

Fees for C++ classes

Outside India, C++ lessons are billed monthly in US dollars. You pay nothing to sign up and can leave at the end of any month.

Free first class

USD 0

no card required

  • A compiler set up and a first program run
  • Advice on the right course
  • No card required
Book it

Group batch

USD 100

a month, billed in US dollars

  • Fifteen to twenty learners per class
  • Code review of each project
  • A regular teacher
  • Stop after any month
Start here

One to one

USD 150

a month, billed in US dollars

  • Lessons around one learner's goal
  • Contest, uni or project focus
  • Times around school or work
Enquire

What families say

Rated 4.9 across 547 Google reviews

Families and learners in their own words, from our Google profile.

★★★★★

"The one step solution for my son. Modern Age Coders make learning coding so simple that kids love it. The teachers explain complex concepts clearly with practical exercises and interactive content."

Ria Mukherjee

Parent

★★★★★

"Modern Age Coders has been a game-changer for me. I struggled to grasp IT concepts and coding before joining, but their classes transformed everything. I can now confidently write complex programs with ease."

Samriddha Mondal

Student

★★★★★

"One of the most wonderful education centres out there. Education is not limited to school syllabus but focuses on skill development."

Vansh Agarwal

Student

★★★★★

"My child Dhairya is really enjoying the Modern Age Coders classes. This is his first online class and he eagerly looks forward to it. I can already see his improvement, and the teachers are very cooperative."

Sonam Oswal

Parent of Dhairya

★★★★★

"Modern Age Coders have wonderful teachers who teach in a clear, easy and practical way. The teacher boosts students' confidence and inspires them to learn without hesitation."

Sonu Goyal

Parent

★★★★★

"I highly recommend this computer coding class! The teachers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about coding."

Ritu Kedia

Parent

Learners ask

Questions about online C++ classes in Australia

What do online C++ classes cover?

Core language, references and memory, the standard library, classes and objects, and measuring and improving performance, in modern C++.

What is the difference between pass by value and pass by reference?

By value copies the argument; by reference gives the function the original. In our test, copying a vector of 17,218 strings on each call took 2,766 ms for 2,000 calls, against 31.3 ms by const reference.

Should I always pass by reference?

No. For small built-in types such as int, passing by value is just as fast and simpler; our int test showed no consistent difference.

Is C++ allowed in the Australian Informatics Olympiad?

Yes. The AIO allows C, C++, Java or Python 3.

Should I learn Python before C++?

Many learners do, because Python is gentler. Motivated beginners can start with C++ directly.

Which version of C++ do you teach?

Modern C++, C++17 and later, with notes where older code differs.

What age can start?

Teens from 13 and adults. Younger students usually begin with Scratch or Python.

Is C++ good for game development?

Our C++ for Teens course includes real games, and our game programming course page covers the wider route from Scratch to engines.

Will C++ help me get a job?

We make no job or salary promises. The classes build skills and projects you can show and explain.

What do C++ classes cost?

Your first class is free and needs no card. Monthly fees for small groups and private lessons are in the fees panel.

Also on this site

Related pages

Pages beside this one.

Competitive programming

Contest skills for every age.

AIO preparation

The school olympiad.

Game programming course

Building games step by step.

JavaScript classes online

The language of the web.

Software development course

Testing, Git and debugging.

Coding classes in Australia

Every Australian page, grouped by place and topic.

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Book a free C++ lesson

Send us a few details and we will arrange a call. In the first class we install a compiler with you, run a program and suggest a starting course.

Read how we teach or see all courses.

WhatsApp us · +91 91233 66161 · connect@modernagecoders.com

WhatsApp is the easiest way to reach us from Australia. The +91 number is our India-based teaching team; there is no Australian shopfront.

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Want a class sooner? Book a priority demo

A priority demo is a full class of about 45 to 60 minutes. After the class the mentor sends a written skill report and a personal learning roadmap on WhatsApp. If you enrol, the demo fee is adjusted against your first month's fee. Share your demo Order ID with us on WhatsApp and we take it off.

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