Introduction to programming with Python (Part 1)

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Who is this for?

This workshop is designed for complete beginners and anyone who wants to learn Python from the ground up. Whether you're new to programming, switching careers, or building your confidence before moving into data, AI, or software development, this series will guide you step by step.
By the end of the programme, you’ll understand the fundamentals of Python and how real code works inside modern applications.

Who is leading the session?

The session is led by Dr. Stelios Sotiriadis, CEO of Warestack and Associate Professor & MSc Programme Director at Birkbeck, University of London. Stelios teaches cloud computing, distributed systems, data engineering, and AI engineering, and has extensive experience working with Huawei, IBM, Autodesk, and multiple startups.

He holds a PhD from the University of Derby, completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Toronto, and has been teaching at Birkbeck since 2018. In 2021 he founded Warestack, building developer tools and automation software for startups around the world.

About the Series

Python for Beginners: From Zero to Hero is a live coding workshop split into 5 sessions (10 hours total). You will write code with me in real time, learning Python through hands-on exercises rather than slides. This is a limited-space, interactive workshop, ideal if you prefer learning by doing.

What we’ll cover (Part 1)

A practical workshop to Python, including:

• What programming is and how Python works
• Writing your first scripts step by step
• Variables, input/output, data types, and operators
• Logic and decision making (if/else)
• Loops (for/while) and how to control program flow
• Best practices for beginners
• Small hands-on challenges to build confidence

Each exercise builds directly on the previous one, so by the end you’ll already feel comfortable writing real code.

Requirements

You just need:

• A laptop (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
• A Gmail account to access Google's Colab (if you don't have one please create)

Why Python?

Python is one of the most widely used programming languages in the world. It's the foundation of:

• AI and machine learning
• Data science
• Web development
• Automation
• Scripting and DevOps
• Modern backend systems

This workshop gives you the skills to move confidently toward all of these areas.

Format

A 2-hour live session including:

• Interactive explanations
• Live coding demonstrations
• Step-by-step guidance
• Hands-on exercises you complete during the session
• Time for questions and practical help
• Homework and exercises

This is a beginner-friendly, supportive learning environment.

Cost

The first session costs only £20, so you can get a flavour of the material and the teaching style. Each session after that is £40, making the total cost for all 5 sessions £180.

By the end of the 5 sessions, you will be able to confidently write Python code and build your own programs from scratch. You’ll understand how to work with data, automate tasks, and apply Python to real-world problems — giving you a strong foundation for further study in AI, data science, and software development.

Prerequisites

No prior programming experience or Python installation required. I’ll guide you through everything from scratch.