C++ help

Hello, i am new to C++. me and a few kids in an independent studies class are starting C++,and I don't really know what we need to start out. Can someone tell me what programs are needed to start programming C++ and to compile the programs? its preferable if the programs could be free. all i need to do is to be able to input some code and be able to compile it and execute it, hopefully using the same program.

First The Compiler:
http://bloodshed.net/
Go there and download the most up to date version of the dev-cpp compiler. Then you might want to consider if you haven't already, picking up some books about C++ mostly because they are more time effective rather than trying to find information on the web.

Information About Dev-Cpp.
This is the only program you should need to write and make finish product programs, there are better programs out there, but unless your willing to spend a few thousand dollars this is a very good option. (Note)I also have Visual Studio 2005 beta by (MS) and although VS helps you out more with your code while your writing, Dev is in my opinion much easier to use.

That's about all you need to get started, and once you do, you will start to learn all the extras that you need. So good luck.

Descent books to buy in my opinion, but I'm no expert are:
1] C++ Primer Plus fifth edition, by Stephen Prata.
a] This book was published in 2005 so the examples
are as up to date as they can get.

2] C++ Programmers Notebook, by Jim Keogh & John Shapely
a] This book is short and sweet, but gives you a good
base to start learning compared to the other book
that is 1200 pages.

So which ever fits your tastes and reading ability, those are a couple of good places to start. Hope this helps a little