Python Coaching For Beginners

🚀 Ready to Master Python and Kickstart Your Tech Career?

Ever thought about:

• Launching a tech career with Python?
• Automating tasks and increasing work efficiency?
• Showcasing your code to the world?

Challenges You Might Face:

• Overwhelmed with basic Python concepts?
• Confused by Git and GitHub?
• Stuck in an endless cycle of tutorials?

Introducing: Pybites Developer Initialization (PDI) A 6-week 1:1 coaching program designed to take you from zero to a proficient Python developer, even if you’re in a traditional non-tech role.

After getting bogged down in code camp and tutorials, I took the PDI course to jump start my familiarity with Python. I’m very glad I did so — the course offered a balance of structure and flexibility that enabled me to learn quickly and at a pace where I could fully understand the code I was writing. The 1:1 conversations were essential for improving my skills and my confidence. I’ve since been able to build some simple applications for fun and enjoyment using open source libraries.

-Kevin S. (USA)

🔥 Highlights

1. Structured Onboarding: Kickstart your coding journey with clarity.
2. Developer Setup: Get the right tools. Python, IDE, GitHub – we’ve got you.
3. Python Basics: 25 essential exercises covering core concepts.
4. Git/GitHub Introduction: Manage code versions and collaborate like a pro.
5. Real-world Projects: Implement what you’ve learned with hands-on capstone projects.
6. Developer Mindset and Productivity Coaching: Not just coding. Learn the mindset and tactics of successful developers.

💡 Our Edge:

• Focused Content: No more tutorial paralysis.
• 1:1 Coaching: Learn from pros who’ve been in your shoes.
• Results-Driven Approach: From zero to coding in weeks, not years.

Ready to transform your career? Dive into PDI today …

Key Skills and Deliverables 📈

– Python Fundamentals: Deepen your Python skills from zero to a more intermediate level, encompassing the core aspects of the language and its standard library.
– Developer Toolkit Proficiency: Understand and use essential developer tools and techniques, including linters, auto-formatters, and IDE setups.
– Software Development Techniques: Gain insights into best practices and techniques for efficient and effective software development.
– Version Control Proficiency: Master the fundamentals of Git for version control, including platform-specific nuances of GitHub or GitLab, and embrace collaborative practices such as code reviews and pull requests.
– Capstone Projects: Design and develop one of three potential real-world projects, implementing the skills and knowledge you’ve accumulated.
– Debugging Fundamentals: Acquire basic debugging skills to troubleshoot and solve issues in your code effectively.
– Code Quality and Refactoring: Learn how to add test coverage to your projects and refactor your code for enhanced clarity and maintainability.
– Agile Methodologies: Get introduced to Agile planning and its application in a software team setting, preparing you for collaborative development environments.
– Production-Ready Skills: Understand the basics of taking your code from development to production, including deployment strategies and considerations.
– Python Virtual Environments: Master the use of virtual environments in Python to manage project dependencies and ensure reproducibility.
– Integration with Third-Party APIs: Familiarize yourself with integrating third-party services via APIs, a crucial skill for many modern Python applications.
– Adaptive Learning: Depending on your initial skill level, learn how to evaluate and rapidly adopt new frameworks and technologies, be it in web development, APIs, or databases.
– Developer Soft Skills and Mindset: Enhance your communication abilities, teamwork ethos, and other soft skills pivotal for a developer. Also, adopt the mindset and productivity tactics of successful developers, setting you up for long-term success in the tech realm.

A significant milestone in my professional journey

I have recently finished the PCPD-A certification program and have been officially certified  as a Python Developer by Pybites! This certification marks a significant milestone in my professional journey and reflects my dedication to mastering Python programming 

The rigorous training and comprehensive curriculum provided by PyBites have equipped me with advanced skills and knowledge in Python development. I have gained invaluable experience in problem-solving, code optimization, and best practices, which I am eager to apply in my professional endeavors. During my journey I have built several projects, one of them was an advanced Django project involving AI!

This achievement not only enhances my technical capabilities but also motivates me to continue learning and growing in the field of software development.

Sander B (Netherlands)
PDI Program Client

Transformative Journey with PDI Coaching Program

Before embarking on my journey with the PDI coaching program, I found myself struggling with Python. I’d had exposure to it with a Data Science degree program, and while learning it through that lens was important, I found myself becoming exposed to more of the technical aspects from job postings where the description wanted more Python development experience and Git/GitHub experience that I’d ever had. I was very frustrated because I could not seem to find a solution that I felt appropriate for my experience, and I suffered terribly from impostor syndrome.

The PDI coaching program was a game-changer for me. It was during this program that I came to recognize that everyone suffers from impostor syndrome and that, while there are many ways to learn Python, the most important thing is to start coding and working on projects, even if they seem simple. It is the coding repetition that instills knowledge and even experts still look up things. Also, Git/GitHub are not scary tools! 

From completing the PDI program, I know have a much better understanding of using Python and associated tools as a developer, not just as a Data Scientist, but with thinking in terms of projects, version control, and most importantly, coding every day and asking questions immediately, not just losing myself in tutorial vacuums.

One of the standout aspects of the PDI coaching program was the personalized approach. The 1:1 coaching sessions were tailored to my specific needs and goals, providing me with great guidance and support. The structured onboarding process ensured I was set up for success right from the start. Additionally, the hands-on projects helped me apply what I learned in a real-world context.

I’m convinced that without PDI, I’d still be struggling, lacking direction, and would have probably just given up trying to gain the skills I desired.

To anyone on the fence about joining PDI, I encourage you to take the plunge. This program has the potential to change your life in ways you can’t even imagine right now. Embrace it with an open mind and a willingness to learn, and you’ll be amazed at the transformation that awaits you. Don’t let doubt hold you back from unlocking your true potential.

The PDI coaching program exceeded my expectations in every way. The guidance, support, and practical tools provided were invaluable. 

Jeff L (USA)
PDI Program Client

FAQ

Meet the team

Bob

Location: Spain
Role: Coach

I started building websites in 2007 and grew from a support engineer at Sun into a tools developer and later cloud software developer at Oracle (2010-2020).

In 2016 we started Pybites producing a blog, courses and a coding platform hosting over 300 exercises that have been coded by thousands of (aspiring) Python programmers worldwide.

In 2020 we started our 1:1 coaching (PDM) helping people become effective Python developers.

Through Pybites and our PDM, and PDI programs I get to passionately share my love and knowledge of Python and software development every day.

Julian

Location: Australia
Role: Coach

Starting a career in technology working on Enterprise hardware at Sun and Oracle, I found a way to explore my passion for programming by building the Pybites blog with Bob.

As I shared what I was learning I came to realise that building and sharing really is the best way to learn anything!

This allowed me to eventually jump into a full-time software development engineer role at Amazon Web Services where I learned even more about being a professional developer.

Through work and Pybites I’ve realised my love for lifting people up and am stoked that I get to do this every day as Coach in the PDM and PDI Programs, and as Co-Founder of Pybites.

Erik

Location: USA
Role: Coach

Erik O’Shaughnessy is an opinionated and friendly Unix system programmer living the good life in Texas. 

Over the last thirty-plus years he has worked for IBM, Sun Microsystems, Oracle, and most recently, Intel. 

Erik is married to Tracy and has two kids; Tim and Frankie. He is; a mechanical keyboard aficionado, a gamer, a father, a husband, student of karate, and not worth a damn in the morning before coffee.

Russell

Location: California, USA
Role: Coach

Russell Helmstedter has been a middle school math teacher in since 2014. In 2020, he began learning Python with the intention of bringing it into his classroom. The following school year, the computer science teacher move, and Russell took over the position.

Originally, Russell reached out to Pybites in 2021 for his students, but liked it so much he started creating screencasts for the Newbie Bites, worked with Bob to create an additional 25 ones, and became a coach in 2024.

Outside of teaching and coding, Russell enjoys cooking, listening to good music, and swinging the occasional kettlebell.

Hugh

Location: USA
Role: Coach

Hugh has nearly 30 years experience in the technology industry from the early days of the Internet all the way to the latest practices in Cloud engineering, and holds a degree in Computer Science. In addition, he had originally been a student in the Pybites PDM program.

As a proponent of automation, Infrastructure as Code, Test Driven Development and CI/CD software development workflows, Hugh believes in making computers work for people rather than the other way around.

In the realm of Python, Hugh is a fan of FastAPI, Pytest, and Django, and uses Python to build tooling for AWS (Amazon Web Services) via boto3.

His hobbies include poetry, fiction writing and local theatre.

“Security shouldn’t be an afterthought.”

Robin

Location: Germany (and/ or nomad)
Role: Coach

• Human made in 🇩🇪, recently husband ❤️
• Digital Nomad, Energy Data Scientist and Entrepreneur 👨‍💻
• Studied physics at RWTH Aachen with electrochemistry internship at Collège de France 🔋
• Previously Senior Python Developer and Co-Founder at ACCURE Battery Intelligence GmbH 🕴️
• Currently Entrepreneur leveraging hybrid intelligence to battle climate change 💪
• Well-rounded Pythonista with 8 years of Python experience in data science, software development and cloud engineering, basic webdev experience 🐍

Will

Location: South Korea
Role: Coach

Will is a machine learning engineer who has been working with Python since 2015. As a generalist, Will has experience using Python to leverage machine learning and artificial intelligence to problems across many domains.

In recent years, Will has taken a keen interest in Python’s typing system, recognizing its potential to make a great programming language even better.

Will currently is located in Seoul with his wife, two dogs, and cat.

Gijs

Location: Netherlands
Role: Coach

Gijs Mos has over 45 years of experience, primarily working as a IT consultant for cell phone operators.

After retiring, he ventured into the IoT sector, focusing on hardware design and programming in (Micro)Python, and began teaching in the local IoT community.

Currently, Gijs teaches the Python programming course to freshman Digital Transformation Management students. His approach blends practical experience with theoretical knowledge, helping students connect classroom learning with real-world applications.

Outside of teaching and technology, Gijs enjoys his grandchildren, exploring new tech trends, electronics, photography and walking.

And looking after all admin related PDI work is our incredible Executive Assistant:

Georgia

Location: Sydney
Role: Executive Assistant
Star Sign: Virgo

Georgia is our admin powerhouse! With significant experience in administration, coordination and customer experience from global tech and entertainment brands, she rounds out the team by bringing a fresh perspective and funky ideas.

Astrologically inclined towards organisation with a hyper-awareness of every detail, Georgia is a perfectionist at heart that isn’t afraid to improve skills through consistent practice, and challenges others to do the same.

Georgia spends her downtime walking the Sydney Harbour foreshore with her dog Hugo, or at home catching up on the latest reality tv drama with her bird Bilbo.

Enough about us. If you are interested in joining the program, it all starts with applying below so we can learn about your coding experience so far and your goals with Python. Ready?

Beyond Python Coding: How PDI Reinvented Sherry’s Approach to Life and Work in Just 6 Weeks

Sherry B (Sweden)
PDI Program Client

Enhancing Careers Through PDI: How Understanding Developer Challenges Transformed My Research Approach

Before starting the PDI coaching program, I was a qualitative user experience researcher looking to transition into a mixed-methods researcher. At that time, I faced significant challenges, particularly needing more skills and tools for quantitative analysis. My motivation to join the PDI program stemmed from my desire to intuitively learn Python, complemented by one-on-one coaching and a well-structured program. I was particularly drawn to the challenging exercises that promised to incrementally build my skills and eventually put them to the test.

Throughout the program, I had several breakthrough moments, but one that stood out was putting myself in the shoes of a developer. As a user experience researcher, creating compelling insights that drive product teams forward is crucial. This experience taught me to consider the limitations of technology, ensuring my insights are impactful and pragmatic. Understanding software developers’ challenges has profoundly informed how I surface research insights and present product recommendations.

Since completing the PDI program, I have achieved tangible results, including a solid foundation with basic Python programming and the ability to leverage terminal command line actions. The most significant impact on my work will be applying my newfound Python knowledge to a data analysis course that uses Python. This is an exciting next step in my learning journey.

Some of my favorite parts of the program included the one-on-one coaching sessions with Bob and tackling the newbie-bite coding challenges. The structured onboarding and hands-on projects were also highly beneficial, but having a coach to guide me through roadblocks was particularly impactful.

Reflecting on where I might be now if I hadn’t joined the PDI program, I realize I would most likely struggle with quantitative analysis and lack the confidence and skills to become a competent mixed-methods researcher.

To anyone on the fence about joining the PDI program, I understand your apprehension. It’s a significant investment, but the PyBites team is genuinely committed to your success. They’re passionate about teaching and will ensure you thrive in your Python learning journey. My advice to potential participants is simple: don’t give up. There will be moments of frustration, but the coaches are there to support you and ensure you keep moving forward.

Garrett R (USA)
PDI Program Client

From UNIX/Linux SysAdmin to Confident Coder: How Pybites Became the Turning Point in My Programming Journey

I’ve been a UNIX/Linux Systems Administrator for over 20 years in various academic settings. I took this job because I thought it would be a great way for me to accomplish my ultimate goal which was to learn how to code and obtain a career as a programmer while still earning a living.

Over the past 20 years, I’ve taken courses both in a university classroom setting and an online self-study setting in programming and computer science. All of them had their benefits, but none worked for me. The university courses were designed to teach some aspect of computer science (say, for example, data structures or algorithms). As a result, most of the code was provided with the assignment and I was only required to setup the data structure or algorithm and then use it.

I never really had the opportunity to design the structure of the program or start to write it. I then moved to online, self-study classes which I’m sure were great but after listening to 30-60 mins of introductory materials, I usually got bored and never returned to them. With self-study, I never really knew where or how to start.

I’ve been drawn to the Pybites educational paradigms ever since I heard Bob and Julian on the Talk Python To Me podcast back in 2017. I liked the idea of “100 days of code challenges” but even in that case it seemed like just starting was a major task.

Every so often I did try doing some of the pybites which led me to the Pybites Developer Initialization. My initial conversations, first with Julian and then with Bob were fantastic. They wanted to know how they could help and whether their program would be the right fit for me.

Once I joined the PDI program, Erik was assigned as my coach. He wanted to know what I wished to accomplish. He also wanted to know where I was on my coding “journey” since this wasn’t a “one size fits all” program: a big part of this program is setting up a git repo, installing a python virtual environment and becoming comfortable with a coding environment.

Since I already knew how to do those things he spent almost no time discussing them but did spend a significant amount of time talking about Poetry (Python dependency management and packaging tool) which I had never heard of. For the first time, ever, the introductory material was both challenging and kept me engaged!

From this point on, my coaching sessions with Erik only got better. He pushed me to think of projects that aligned with my current interests; he took my code that I wrote and showed how I could make it better; and he showed how I could continue learning long after our sessions were concluded.

He’s a fantastic teacher and I got a ton of great information from him. But most importantly, I now feel comfrotable reading articles about Python and how to use it to accomplish my tasks. I also picked up some great habits from this program like keeping track of weekly “wins”: not only do they help keep track of your progress, but I discovered that if you commit to them you stay on track toward achieving your goals.

In short, the PDI program was a “game changer” for me. Because of it, I believe I will eventually become a programmer and may even make a living doing it.

Michael D (USA)
PDI Program Client

Empowering Journey from Novice to Proficient Python Developer: A PDI Course Review

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

I recently undertook the PDI course, and I must say, it has been an exceptional learning experience. This course, coupled with the guidance of our tutor, Bob, has transformed me from a Python novice to a self-sufficient Python developer.

Before enrolling in this course, I lacked the confidence to tackle Python exercises and projects. The concepts seemed daunting, and I often found myself overwhelmed. However, under Bob’s expert guidance, I was able to navigate through my uncertainties and truly grasp the core skills required to excel in Python development.

One of the standout features of this course was the personalized attention and support provided by Bob. He was always on hand to address any queries, offer insightful feedback, and guide me through the intricacies of my project. His expertise and approachable teaching style made the learning process not only effective but also enjoyable.

The course content itself was well-structured and covered a wide range of topics, providing a comprehensive understanding of Python development. From fundamentals to advanced concepts, every aspect was thoughtfully curated, ensuring a holistic learning experience.

Moreover, the practical exercises and projects included in the course were invaluable. They challenged me to apply what I had learned, reinforcing my understanding and confidence in Python programming. The hands-on approach was instrumental in bridging the gap between theory and practical application.

Thanks to Pybites and Bob, I now feel equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to embark on a successful career as a Python developer. This course has not only elevated my technical abilities but also boosted my confidence in tackling complex projects.

In conclusion, the PDI course is a game-changer for anyone looking to master Python development. The combination of well-structured content, hands-on projects, and expert guidance from Bob creates an unparalleled learning experience. I wholeheartedly recommend this course to aspiring Python developers. It’s a transformative journey that you won’t want to miss.

Sean G (UK)
PDI Program Client