Digital Skills - Coding & Programming - Python Basics
Description
Develop your digital skills with our beginner's course in Python coding and programming. Designed for those with little or no previous experience, this course introduces the core principles of programming through Python - one of the most widely used programming languages today. Through practical activities and guided exercises, you will build confidence creating simple programs, develop problem-solving and computational thinking skills, and gain a foundation for further learning and progression into digital related careers.
This is the first of a two part programme.
In this course you will learn:
Python Programming Basics
What is programming and how is Python used
Writing/running simple Python programs
Using variables, numbers and text
Basic input and output commands
Coding Skills
Using operators and simple calculations
Creating conditional statements (if/else)
Using loops to repeat actions
Working with simple lists and data collections
Problem Solving & Development
Debugging and correcting errors
Creating simple practical programs
Understanding basic programming logic
Developing confidence in computational thinking
Please click below to register for this course and someone will contact you to confirm your place.
Prior experience required:
No previous coding or programming experience required.
As this course is highly focused, the ability to use a mouse and keyboard confidently and navigate Microsoft Windows is essential.
This course is not suitable for beginners to computing or those with low PC skills.
Recommended follow on course:
Coding & Programming - Follow On Course
More information
If further information is required, please phone the college and ask to speak to a member of the digital skills team. Alternatively, send an email to digitalskills@baec.ac.uk.
Can I join late?
For courses of 6 weeks or less, late starters are not allowed
For courses of 6 - 12 weeks late starters are allowed up to the 2nd week of the course.
Who is the course for?
See main course description.
If you are unsure if you are suitable for a course, please phone the Kentwood or Poverest Centre and ask to speak to a member of the digital skills team or email digitalskills@baec.ac.uk
Do I need prior knowledge or experience?
See the main course listing above for information regarding prior knowledge.
The college retains the right to withdraw a student from a course if their prior skills are not sufficient to undertake a course.
How will I learn?
This is a tutor led, classroom based course with practical learning on the computers provided.
The college has Windows 11 PC's running both Microsoft and Google software.
How will my progress be assessed?
Your progress will be assessed by your tutor throughout the course and there will be plenty of opportunity to get feedback.
Is there an external qualification?
No, this is not a qualification course and there will be no certificate upon completion.
What can I do next?
There is a progression pathway to the courses. Starting with complete beginner and ending with competent workplace user. The pathways is:
DIGITAL SKILLS FOR EVERY DAY LIFE
Computing Step 1 - The Basics
Computing step 2 - Online Essentials
Computing step 3 - Productivity Essentials
DIGITAL SKILLS FOR WORK
Office Skills Foundation (Word and PowerPoint or Excel)
Office Skills Intermediate (Word and PowerPoint or Excel)
What do I need to bring?
Notepad and pen.
A folder or some other means of keeping paper handouts organised.
Are there any extra costs?
No. Digital Skills courses are free to all when taken the first time.
If you wish to repeat a course, there may be a charge.
Is there work between sessions?
Your tutor may set you practice between sessions to help build your retention and skills, and those students who engage in learning between sessions generally experience greater success.
PC's are available at the college and there are digital drop in sessions once a week where a facilitator can support you if required.
Enrolment information
You can enrol online for this course.
We recommend you enrol on any follow on courses at the same time to ensure your place is secured as spaces cannot be reserved.
For further information, please contact:
The Kentwood Centre on 020 8659 7976 or the Poverest Centre on 01689 822886, email digitalskills@baec.ac.uk
Course Summary
Code: K05843
Starting: Monday 14 September 2026
Location: Kentwood Centre
Tutor: Sumaira Hasan
Cost: Free - Digital Skills course
By continuing you confirm that you are over 19 and have agreed to the the terms and conditions
Time and duration
Day: Monday Afternoon
Start Time: 12:30
End Time: 15:00
Start Date: 14 September 2026
End Date: 12 October 2026
Duration: 5 sessions spanning 5 week(s)
Location
Kentwood Centre
Kingsdale Road
Penge
London
SE20 7PR