Python for Kids UK (2025) – A Simple Parent Guide

Python is one of the easiest programming languages for children to learn. It is used in UK schools, in modern tech jobs, and even in small projects at home. This guide explains what Python is, how it fits into the UK curriculum, and how you can help your child get started without stress or big costs.

If your child is new to coding, you may also want to read our Scratch Coding for Kids UK guide and our Kids Coding Hub UK .

What Is Python?

Python is a text-based programming language. Children type instructions instead of dragging blocks like they do in Scratch. It is designed to be simple and readable, which makes it ideal for beginners.

For example, to show a message on the screen you can write:

print("Hello, World!")

That is all. No strange symbols or long lines of code. The same language is used by websites, apps, research labs and banks.

Python is:

  • free to download and use
  • available on Windows, Mac and many Chromebooks (via online editors)
  • used heavily in UK schools for GCSE and A-Level Computer Science

Why Python Matters for UK Kids

1. It Teaches Clear Thinking

Python helps children break problems into small, tidy steps:

  • first do this
  • then repeat that
  • if this happens, do something else

This “computational thinking” supports maths, science and everyday problem solving.

2. It Fits the UK School System

Python is now the main text-based language in many UK secondary schools. It appears in Key Stage 3 lessons, GCSE Computer Science exams and A-Level projects. A little practice at home can make class work feel much less stressful.

3. It Is Free and Works on Modest Devices

Python is free and open source. You can install it on a normal laptop or use it through online editors. It also runs on the low-cost Raspberry Pi, which was invented in the UK.

Python in the UK Curriculum

Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9)

Most pupils first meet Python in Year 8 or Year 9. By this point, they have usually used Scratch or other block-based tools.

In KS3 they typically learn how to:

  • use variables to store data
  • repeat sections of code with loops
  • use if/else decisions
  • write small programs that do calculations or ask questions

Parent tip: the move from blocks to text can feel hard. This is normal. Encouragement and a few simple projects at home can build confidence quickly.

GCSE Computer Science (Years 10–11)

For exam boards such as AQA and OCR, Python is often used for:

  • programming questions in the written exam
  • classroom coding tasks
  • small projects and practice exercises

Students need to write, read and fix Python code under exam conditions. Feeling comfortable with Python can make a real difference to their final grade.

A-Level and University

At A-Level, students use Python for:

  • more complex algorithms and data structures
  • data processing and simple AI tasks
  • coursework projects (NEA)

Many UK universities use Python in their first-year Computer Science courses. A teenager who already knows Python will have a strong head start.

How Python Links to Future Careers

Python is used widely across the UK tech industry. Some common areas include:

  • Finance and FinTech – banking apps, trading tools, fraud detection
  • Data Science and AI – analysing data, building prediction models
  • Games and Media – tools inside game engines and animation pipelines
  • Science and Medicine – research projects and lab data analysis

Even if your child chooses a different path later, Python builds logic, planning and persistence. These skills are valuable in almost any career.

Free UK-Friendly Python Resources

1. Raspberry Pi Foundation Projects

The Raspberry Pi Foundation is a UK charity with excellent free Python projects. They provide step-by-step guides for games, art and simple tools.

Search for “Raspberry Pi Python projects” and pick a beginner one to try together. Many are designed for ages 9–13 and match what schools teach.

2. BBC Bitesize

BBC Bitesize has Computer Science sections that match the National Curriculum. They include short videos, clear explanations and quick quizzes. These are ideal if your child is stuck on a concept for homework or revision.

3. BBC micro:bit

The BBC micro:bit is a small board with lights and sensors. Children can write Python to scroll messages, measure temperature or make simple games. It connects code to the real world, which many children find motivating.

4. Code Clubs and Local Groups

Many schools, libraries and community centres run coding clubs that use Python. Search online for “Code Club near me” or “kids coding club [your town]”.

How to Start Python at Different Ages

Ages 9–11 – Gentle Introduction

At this age, many children still enjoy visual tools. You can:

  • keep using Scratch and show how loops and decisions also exist in Python
  • use Minecraft: Education Edition with its Python editor
  • try very short scripts that show messages or do simple sums

The aim here is curiosity and enjoyment, not perfection.

Ages 12–14 – Support for KS3

Good beginner project ideas include:

  • a script that works out pocket-money savings
  • a small quiz that asks questions and gives a score
  • a simple “chatbot” that replies to basic phrases

Keep projects short and achievable. Finishing something small is better than never finishing something big.

Ages 15+ – GCSE Prep and Beyond

Once they know the basics, teenagers can:

  • work through GCSE-style practice questions
  • use puzzle sites such as Codewars with beginner problems
  • build small projects linked to their interests, such as football stats or revision timers

How Parents Can Help (Even If You Do Not Code)

You do not need to be a programmer to support your child with Python. You can help by:

  • providing a calm space and regular time to practise
  • asking them to explain what their code is meant to do
  • praising effort and persistence, not just “getting it right”
  • reminding them that errors are normal and fixable

If they are stuck, you can search together, watch a BBC Bitesize video, or look up a Raspberry Pi project that covers the same idea.

Final Thoughts

Python is more than a buzzword. It is a practical, gentle way for young people to understand how the digital world works.

Learning Python can support school work, open doors to modern careers and teach clear thinking and problem solving. You do not have to plan their whole future, but helping them write that first line: 

print("Hello, World!")

is a simple, powerful step. For more ideas and next steps, visit our Kids Coding Hub UK .