The objective of the OTHM Level 3 Certificate in Python provide the learner with the essential skills necessary to write programs in the Python programming language, for a variety of purposes. This certificate is suitable for those who are new to Python, and have little programming knowledge, providing a comprehensive overview of the basics. This might include students, or professionals wishing to advance their technical skills and career.

The qualification provides learners with an understanding of the syntax, structure, and best programming practices in Python, and takes them from writing basic “Hello World” programs in interactive Jupyter notebooks, to more complex programs that make use of a range of data types, functions, classes and control flow, and are spread over multiple files.

As well as teaching learners how to program in Python, this certificate will give them the opportunity to practise and advance a variety of transferable skills, including problem-solving, logical thinking, and a better understanding of the structure and function of programming languages.

Upon completion of the certificate, learners will have the necessary skills to understand and build a range of essential programs, such as text-based games, simple automation scripts, and programs for data analysis and manipulation. The knowledge and skills they will gain as part of this certificate will provide them with a solid foundation that will also allow them to progress on to more advanced concepts and techniques in the Python programming language.

These qualifications are designed for learners who are typically aged 16 and above.

The entry profile for learners is likely to include at least one of the following:

• Relevant Level 2 Diploma qualification or equivalent qualification.
• GCSEs in 5 subjects or equivalent qualifications. Must include Mathematics and Physics at grade C/5 or above.
• Mature learners (over 21) with relevant management experience (learners must check with the delivery centre regarding this experience prior to registering for the programme)

English requirements:If a learner is not from a majority English-speaking country, they must provide evidence of English language competency. For more information visit the English Language Expectations page on the OTHM website.

OTHM Level 3 Certificates represent practical knowledge, skills, capabilities and competences that are assessed in academic terms as being equivalent to GCE AS/A Levels.

• Getting Started with Python
• Writing Python Programmes
• Data Types and Classes
• Building and Running Python Applications

The qualification is designed to be delivered over six months full-time study, but it is also flexible in its delivery in order to accommodate part-time and distance learning.

The qualification is delivered face-to-face, through lectures, tutorials, seminars, distance, online by approved centres only.

All units within this qualification are assessed and internally quality assured by the centre and externally verified by OTHM. The qualifications are criterion referenced, based on the achievement of all the specified learning outcomes.

To achieve a ‘pass’ for a unit, learners must provide evidence to demonstrate that they have fulfilled all the learning outcomes and meet the standards specified by all assessment criteria. Judgement that the learners have successfully fulfilled the assessment criteria is made by the assessor.

Specific assessment guidance and relevant marking criteria for each unit are made available in the Assignment Brief document. These are made available to centres immediately after registration of one or more learners.

The assessor should provide an audit trail showing how the judgement of the learners’ overall achievement has been arrived at.

Successful completion of the OTHM Level 3 Certificate in Python provides learners with the opportunity to access a wide range of academic progression, including the OTHM Level 4 or Extended Level 5 Diploma in Cyber Security.

As this qualification is approved and regulated by Ofqual (Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulation), learners are eligible for a range of progression routes. For more information visit the University Progressions page on the OTHM website.