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Year 9 Python Foundations

An overview of the Year 9 Python unit, with setup, lesson pathways, and the core project sequence.

Published Updated Type unit-overview

This unit introduces programming through a gradual sequence of lessons and project work. The goal is not speed; it is clear thinking, deliberate problem-solving, and readable code.

Learning Focus

  • understand how Python programs move from input to processing to output
  • build confidence with variables, conditionals, loops, and functions
  • practise planning before coding (especially with algorithms and decision trees)
  • improve program quality through testing, feedback, and refactoring

Unit Pathway

  1. Environment Setup
    Python Setup with Thonny
  2. Code Quality Foundations
    Clean Code Basics
  3. Core Concept Sequence
    Python Basics: Chapter Hub
  4. Integrated Project Sequence
    Pet Services Project
  5. Ongoing Support
    Python Reference

Week Flow

  • Weeks 1-2: setup, output, variables, and beginner program structure
  • Weeks 3-4: decisions and loops, then project implementation
  • Week 6 onward: functions and refactoring to improve program design

Entry Points

🚧 This page is under construction

This page will grow as we move through the term. Links, lessons, and projects will go live progressively as you learn new skills.

If something isn’t clickable yet, that’s expected - we’ll unlock it when the time comes, through the term.

Last updated: 03 March 2026

Term 1 – Python Foundations 🐍

This term, we will learn the basics of programming using Python. You are not expected to have any prior coding experience. We will build skills slowly, practise often, and focus on understanding how programs work — not memorising syntax.

▶ ⏱️ How This Term Works
  • Lessons build gradually
  • Code is reused and improved
  • Mistakes are expected and useful
  • Understanding matters more than speed
  • If you finish your lesson activities, get started on one of the projects above.
▶ 🧰 Tools & Setup
  • Install Thonny
  • Code files submitted online
  • Help available in class and online

📘 Lessons – Python Foundations

Lessons introduce new ideas step by step. Each week builds on the one before it.

Week 7 – Coming Soon
  • Focus: (to be added)
  • Links coming soon.
Week 8 – Coming Soon
  • Focus: (to be added)
  • Links coming soon.
Week 9 – Coming Soon
  • Focus: (to be added)
  • Links coming soon.
Week 10 – Coming Soon
  • Focus: (to be added)
  • Links coming soon.

👉 Core python learning content lives here:
Explorer: The Python Basics Hub

New lessons and links will be added here as we move through the term.

▶ 🛠️ Projects – Building with Python

Projects are where you apply what you learn in lessons. You will return to and improve your projects as your skills grow.

  1. Intro Program (input and output)

Projects run alongside lessons and are a part of your learning.

▶ 🧠 Learning to think like a programmer

Learning to code is about learning how to think, not just how to type. This hub supports the way programmers approach problems and build understanding over time. The material in this section will help you build stronger programming habits and clearer problem-solving.

  • Breaking problems into smaller steps
  • Reading code before writing code
  • Predicting what code will do
  • Debugging as a normal part of learning
▶ 📚 Python Reference Wiki

This is a reference space you can return to at any time. This section exists to support you when you are stuck or unsure.

  • Variables
  • Input and output
  • Operators
  • if / else statements
  • Loops
  • Strings
  • Lists & tuples
  • Dictionaries and sets
  • Functions
  • Files
  • Imports
  • Debugging common errors and fixes

🤝 Expectations & Norms

  • Read your code twice and make sure you run it to check for errors before submitting it.
  • Read the error message and try to fix it yourself before asking for help
  • Ask questions when stuck
  • Help others debug
  • Everyone starts at a different point, so remember to be kind when providing feedback