In July, the transient neutron star low-mass X-ray binary Aql X-1 was detected in outburst at X-ray, UV, optical and near-infrared wavelengths (ATel #2742, #2744, #2748). On 1st September the X-rays re-brightened (ATel #2850). Here we report on our ongoing optical monitoring campaign (ATel #1218, #1970, #2288) with the Faulkes Telescopes North and South. The outburst started between 5th July (MJD 55382.5; when its V and i' magnitudes were consistent with quiescent levels) and 8th July (MJD 55385.4; when it had brightened by 0.6 mag in V and 0.3 mag in i' above quiescent levels).