Lego to open Master Building Academy

By Trevor Mogg May 11, 2011

It is said by many that today’s Lego builders are tomorrow’s builders of bridges, skyscrapers and tunnels (yes, real ones). Whereas some children happily use the plastic bricks to construct nothing more complicated than a wall, others find a deep connection with the building process and begin to produce structures displaying such impressive technical skill that even Dad is left looking on in awe.

If you’ve ever been to Legoland, you’ll have seen the amazing work of Lego’s Master Builders – employees of Lego. These aren’t children. These are adults that couldn’t kick the Lego habit, and while they can say they did grow up to build bridges and skyscrapers, these ones are made of plastic bricks and are about three meters tall.

And now, according to a report in PC Mag, Lego is launching an initiative to encourage more people to become Master Builders. The company is opening the Lego Master Building Academy (MBA), which incorporates a six-course curriculum for Lego fans to teach them how to be even more creative with the plastic blocks. There are even plans to turn it into an 18-course program lasting three years.

The course may well prove popular with Lego fans who want to give their building hobby a bit more focus. To get started, you’ll need to buy a special Lego kit for $29.99, available online or at Lego stores. This kit helps you complete the first part of the course.

After that, you’ll be ready for the six-course program – costing $69.99. This will be available online only. A new kit-based lesson will arrive every two months.

According to PC Mag, once you’ve completed the course, you’ll find yourself in possession of 947 Lego pieces (we’re not sure if this number is significant) and six books containing a plethora of building guides and tips. Online access to special building-based content will also be available.

So Lego lovers, are you ready to take your hobby to a whole new level? Level One, Course One will arrive at Lego.com and in Lego stores June 1.

Lego was founded in Denmark in 1932 and sells its products in more than 130 countries. In terms of sales, it is the world’s fourth largest toy manufacturer. Pretty impressive for a company that began life in a carpenter’s workshop.

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