Also, with regards to graphics and 3d programs, Fishingelm, see the following:
The following list is in the software boutique. but, first when you open it, you need to set it to retrieve the latest software. You can find a little tick-box at the bottom left of the window. see below:
At which point, you can install all of the following form the software boutique:
blender
gimp
gpick
inkscape
mypaint
pinta
scribus
sweethome3d
A good starting point for learning GIMP would be:
You can install some more programs from the terminal:
sudo apt-get install krita
sudo apt-get install librecad
sudo apt-get install meshlab
Or, if you are feeling really adventurous, you could alway install the full "Ubuntu Studio" meta-package that includes most of the above plus a heck of a lot more music and video editing stuff.
But, I wouldn't try that yet as it could get slightly complicated during installation. wait until after half term and I can install it for you at then.