--- title: "After Scratch: Moving to Python, for Australian Kids" description: "What comes after Scratch? When Australian kids are ready for Python, a block-by-block translation of a real Scratch game, and the four traps that catch beginners." canonical: https://learn.modernagecoders.com/after-scratch-next-step-python-australia source: src/pages/after-scratch-next-step-python-australia.html --- > What comes after Scratch? When Australian kids are ready for Python, a block-by-block translation of a real Scratch game, and the four traps that catch beginners. In short The usual next step after Scratch is Python, a text language that keeps every idea a child already knows (loops, variables, decisions, input) but asks them to type it. Most children are ready somewhere between nine and twelve, once their Scratch projects feel cramped and they can type short words comfortably. The smoothest way across is to rebuild a game they already made in Scratch, line by line, in Python. Start here ## Courses for the move from Scratch to Python Choose by age. Each one starts by connecting Python to what the child already knows from Scratch. [![Python and AI for Kids course thumbnail](/images/python-kids.webp) ASPY / 01 Python and AI for Kids Ages 9 to 12 in the course's own words. Games, turtle drawings and small AI projects, starting from Scratch ideas. Open the syllabus →](/courses/python-ai-kids-masterclass)[![Python for Teens course thumbnail](/images/python-teens.webp) ASPY / 02 Python for Teens Ages 13 to 18. A full year from first programs to confident, well-structured Python. Open the syllabus →](/courses/python-complete-masterclass-teens)[![Maths Through Coding course thumbnail](/images/maths-through-coding.webp) ASPY / 03 Maths Through Coding Ages 10 to 15. Python used as a tool for school maths, for children who enjoy numbers. Open the syllabus →](/courses/maths-through-coding) Readiness ## Five signs a child is ready to leave Scratch Age matters less than these signs. A nine year old who shows four of them is often more ready than a twelve year old who shows one. | Sign | What you might notice | | --- | --- | | Big projects | Their Scratch projects have many sprites and long scripts that are hard to scroll through | | Variables used freely | They invent variables of their own for scores, speeds and timers | | Frustration with blocks | They complain that something would be easier "if I could just type it" | | Comfortable typing | They type short words and numbers without hunting for every key | | Curiosity about real code | They ask what professional programmers use, or try copying code they have seen | ### Do not rush it A child who moves to Python too early can lose confidence: every error message feels like failure. A few more months of ambitious Scratch projects is never wasted, because the ideas carry over. If a child shows only one or two signs, we often suggest a bigger Scratch project first, or Roblox Studio, which introduces text coding inside a familiar world. ### Do not wait too long either Children who stay in Scratch long after they are ready can start to see coding as something for little kids. Moving to Python at that point re-energises them. The free first class is a good test: the teacher tries a few lines of Python and watches whether the child is excited or deflated. The Australian Curriculum makes the same move. Years 5 and 6 build "visual programs" with variables and input (AC9TDI6P05); from Years 7 and 8, students write programs "in a general-purpose programming language" (AC9TDI8P09). Doing it a little earlier at home just means school feels familiar. Families still deciding between languages can compare them on our page about [kids coding languages](/kids-coding-languages-australia). A worked example ## One Scratch game, translated block by block Our favourite bridge project is a guess-the-number game. The computer picks a secret number from 1 to 100, the player guesses, and the computer answers "Higher!" or "Lower!" until the guess is right. Most children have built something like it in Scratch. | Scratch block | Python | What changes | | --- | --- | --- | | when green flag clicked | the program starts at the top of the file | No start block: Python runs from the first line | | set secret to (pick random 1 to 100) | secret = random.randint(1, 100) | Needs import random at the top | | set guess to 0 | guess = 0 | Exactly the same idea, typed | | repeat until (guess = secret) | while guess != secret: | The condition flips: until equal becomes while not equal | | ask (Guess a number) and wait | input("Guess a number: ") | The question is typed in quotation marks | | set guess to (answer) | guess = int(input(...)) | int() turns the typed text into a number | | if (guess < secret) then say Higher! | if guess < secret: print("Higher!") | A colon and indentation replace the C-shaped block | | if (guess > secret) then say Lower! | elif guess > secret: print("Lower!") | elif means "otherwise, if" | | say You got it! | print("You got it!") | Output goes to the screen as text | Put together, the Python version is ten lines long, and we ran it to check it behaves exactly like the Scratch game. Python's documentation describes `random.randint(a, b)` as returning "a random integer N such that a <= N <= b", so 1 and 100 are both possible, just like Scratch's *pick random 1 to 100*. ### The flip that catches everyone Scratch says *repeat until* the guess equals the secret. Python's loop says *while* the guess does not equal the secret. They mean the same thing, but the condition is turned inside out. Children who copy the Scratch condition straight across write `while guess == secret`, and the loop never runs. Spotting why is one of the most valuable ten minutes in the whole course. ### A bonus question for keen players How many guesses does a clever player need at most? If they always guess the middle of what is left, each answer halves the possibilities. Seven halvings cover 128 numbers, so 7 guesses are always enough for 1 to 100. We checked this by running the halving strategy for all 100 secret numbers in Python. The worst case was exactly 7. Children love testing it against a friend. Sources, read 7 October 2026: block labels from the Scratch Foundation's [scratch-blocks](https://github.com/scratchfoundation/scratch-blocks) repository (msg/json/en.json); [Python documentation for the random module](https://docs.python.org/3/library/random.html). The ten-line game and the halving check are our own code. Four traps ## The four traps that catch new Python programmers Every Scratch coder who moves to Python meets these. None of them is a sign of a weak student; they are features of typed code that blocks protected them from. | Trap | What happens | How we teach past it | | --- | --- | --- | | Indentation | Code inside a loop or if is not indented, so Python complains or runs it at the wrong time | Children colour the indented lines on paper first, matching each to the C-shaped block it replaces | | = and == | They write if guess = secret, and Python reports an error | One equals sign stores a value; two compare. We say "becomes" and "is equal to" aloud | | Text is not a number | input() gives text, so comparing it with a number fails | We print the type of the value so they see "str" and know to use int() | | Flipped conditions | A Scratch "repeat until" is copied straight into a while loop | Translating the guessing game, where the flip is unavoidable | ### Read the error Python error messages name the line and the kind of problem. Reading them slowly, aloud, is the habit we build in the first week. ### Change one thing When something breaks, change one thing and run again. Changing five things at once hides which one mattered. ### Predict, then run Before pressing run, say what should happen. The gap between the prediction and the result is where the learning is. Scratch and Python ## Python vs Scratch for kids: what each does well The comparison parents ask about most. They are not rivals; they are stages. But each has real strengths. | | Scratch | Python | | --- | --- | --- | | How you code | Drag and snap blocks | Type text | | Typing errors | Impossible | Common at first, then rare | | Graphics and sound | Built in from the first minute | Needs a library such as turtle or Pygame | | Large projects | Hard to organise beyond a few screens | Split into functions and files | | What it leads to | Mainly more Scratch | Web, data, AI, games, school and university computing | | Cost | Free, in a browser | Free to download; the current release on python.org is 3.14.8 | ### What children miss from Scratch Instant graphics. A Scratch cat moves the moment you click; a first Python program prints text. We bring graphics back early with the turtle library, so children draw spirals and stars within their first few lessons. Sharing. Scratch has its own community site. Python projects are shared differently, by running them for family or, later, publishing them on the web. ### What children gain Freedom. Python can read files, talk to websites, crunch numbers and run AI models. The ceiling is gone. Respect. Many children find it deeply motivating to write the same language used by professional programmers. Our [longer Scratch and Python comparison](/blog/scratch-vs-python-which-better-young-learners) covers the decision for younger learners. Stages ## Four stages from Scratch coder to Python coder With a weekly lesson, most children who arrive confident in Scratch reach the third stage within two terms. | Stage | What your child can do | | --- | --- | | 1. Translate | Rebuild a small Scratch game in Python with help, using a translation table | | 2. Write | Write a new Python program from a blank file, fixing their own error messages | | 3. Organise | Split a program into functions and reuse them, which Scratch made awkward | | 4. Extend | Use libraries for graphics, data or AI to build something Scratch could not | ### Should they keep using Scratch? For fun, absolutely. Many children keep a Scratch project going alongside Python for months, and switching between them strengthens both. In lessons we focus on Python once the move starts, so the new habits stick. ### School terms and holidays Lessons run through the four school terms if you wish and can pause in holidays. Billing is monthly. The day and time are agreed in the free first class, in your own state's time. The catalogue ## Courses after Scratch Grouped by where a child wants their Python to take them. I ### First Python The core step ASPY / FIRST / 01 #### Python and AI for Kids From Scratch ideas to Python games and AI. [Open the syllabus](/courses/python-ai-kids-masterclass) ASPY / FIRST / 02 #### Python for Teens Beginner to advanced across a full year. [Open the syllabus](/courses/python-complete-masterclass-teens) ASPY / FIRST / 03 #### Problem Solving for Kids Logic and algorithms to sharpen thinking first. [Open the syllabus](/courses/problem-solving-and-computational-thinking-for-kids)II ### Python for making Games and web ASPY / MAKE / 01 #### Game Development for Kids Bigger games across Scratch, Roblox and beyond. [Open the syllabus](/courses/game-development-masterclass-for-kids) ASPY / MAKE / 02 #### Roblox Game Coding Another text language, inside Roblox Studio. [Open the syllabus](/courses/roblox-game-coding-for-kids-lua-course) ASPY / MAKE / 03 #### Web Development for Kids Web pages, the other common next step. [Open the syllabus](/courses/kids-ai-web-development-course)III ### Python for thinking Maths and data ASPY / THINK / 01 #### Maths Through Coding School maths explored with Python. [Open the syllabus](/courses/maths-through-coding) ASPY / THINK / 02 #### AI Literacy for Kids How machine learning works, ages 8 to 14. [Open the syllabus](/courses/ai-literacy-for-kids-course) ASPY / THINK / 03 #### Competitive Programming Algorithm puzzles for confident teens. [Open the syllabus](/courses/competitive-programming-for-teens-course) How lessons run ## Live lessons for new Python coders in Australia We teach from India, a few hours behind every Australian state, so after-school and weekend lessons in Australia fall comfortably in our working day. Weekday, after school The usual choice for primary-age coders. Weekday, early evening Popular with high school students. Weekend Longer sessions for translating bigger projects. ### A free first class Your child translates a few Scratch blocks into Python with a teacher, which shows quickly whether they are ready. ### Groups Fifteen to twenty children making the same move from blocks to text. ### One to one For a child who wants to bring a big Scratch project across. ### Their keyboard The child types every line; teachers point, question and explain. ### Parents can see Lessons are live, so you can watch the first Python steps. ### Bring a project Children can bring their own Scratch game to translate. Student work ## Projects built by our students Finished projects by students who once started in Scratch. Browse more in our [student labs](/student-labs). ![NutriLife AI nutrition coach project screenshot](/images/projects/nutrilife.webp) AI and ML #### NutriLife An AI nutrition coach that reads what you eat and works you toward a target. by Bhavya · [Open it](https://nutrilife-bhavya.lovable.app) ![Misti AI chatbot for maths and coding screenshot](/images/projects/misti.webp) AI and ML #### Misti A chatbot that answers mathematics and programming questions, built and deployed by a student. by Harshit · [Open it](https://misti.modernagecoders.com) ![GuardianX AI internet safety assistant screenshot](/images/projects/guardianx.webp) AI and ML #### GuardianX An assistant that helps a young person recognise unsafe situations online. by Vivaan · [Open it](https://guardianx-cybersaver.lovable.app) ![SkyCast weather forecast application screenshot](/images/projects/skycast.webp) Web app #### SkyCast A weather forecasting site with live conditions for any location. by Krish Fees ## Fees for Python lessons Australian families pay a monthly fee in US dollars. There is nothing to pay to join and no fixed term. Free first class USD 0 no card required - A few Scratch blocks turned into Python - An honest view on readiness - No card or bank details Book it Group batch USD 100 a month, billed in US dollars - Fifteen to twenty children per class - One teacher across the months - Classmates making the same move - Stop after any month Start here One to one USD 150 a month, billed in US dollars - Focused on your child's own projects - Pace set by them - Good for translating a big game Enquire What families say ## Rated 4.9 across 547 Google reviews Taken verbatim from reviews on our Google profile. ★★★★★ "The one step solution for my son. Modern Age Coders make learning coding so simple that kids love it. The teachers explain complex concepts clearly with practical exercises and interactive content." Ria Mukherjee Parent ★★★★★ "Modern Age Coders has been a game-changer for me. I struggled to grasp IT concepts and coding before joining, but their classes transformed everything. I can now confidently write complex programs with ease." Samriddha Mondal Student ★★★★★ "One of the most wonderful education centres out there. Education is not limited to school syllabus but focuses on skill development." Vansh Agarwal Student ★★★★★ "My child Dhairya is really enjoying the Modern Age Coders classes. This is his first online class and he eagerly looks forward to it. I can already see his improvement, and the teachers are very cooperative." Sonam Oswal Parent of Dhairya ★★★★★ "Modern Age Coders have wonderful teachers who teach in a clear, easy and practical way. The teacher boosts students' confidence and inspires them to learn without hesitation." Sonu Goyal Parent ★★★★★ "I highly recommend this computer coding class! The teachers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about coding." Ritu Kedia Parent Questions from parents ## What parents ask about the step after Scratch ### What comes after Scratch? For most children, Python. It keeps every idea from Scratch, such as loops, variables and decisions, but is typed as text and can build much larger and more varied projects. JavaScript and Roblox Luau are other common next steps. ### Python vs Scratch for kids: which is easier? Scratch is easier to start because there are no typing errors. Python is easier for large projects because code can be organised into functions and files. Children usually do Scratch first, then Python. ### At what age should a child move from Scratch to Python? Usually between nine and twelve, depending on how big their Scratch projects are and how comfortably they type. Readiness matters more than age. ### What is the hardest part of moving to Python? Usually indentation, mixing up = and ==, and remembering that typed input is text. These are new because Scratch blocks quietly prevented them. ### Is Python free? Yes. Python is free to download from python.org, and beginners can also use free online editors. ### Can my child keep using Scratch while learning Python? Yes, for fun. Many children keep a Scratch project going alongside, and moving between the two strengthens both. ### How long does it take to switch from Scratch to Python? A confident Scratch coder can usually rebuild their own small games in Python within a few weeks of weekly lessons, and write new programs independently within a term or two. ### What should my child build first in Python? Something they already built in Scratch, such as a guessing game or a quiz. Translating a known game means only the language is new, not the idea. ### Does the Australian Curriculum use Python? It does not require one language, but expects a general-purpose language from Years 7 and 8 and gives Python, JavaScript or C# as examples. Python is a common choice. ### What does it cost? The opening lesson is free and needs no card. After that there is a monthly fee for a group place or for private lessons, both shown under Fees, with no joining charge. Elsewhere on this site ## Related pages More for Australian families making the move to text coding. ### [Coding classes in Australia](/coding-classes-in-australia) Our hub page for Australian families. ### [Kids coding languages](/kids-coding-languages-australia) Python, JavaScript and Luau compared. ### [Coding for Year 7](/coding-for-year-7-australia) When school starts using a typed language. ### [Coding for 9 and 10 year olds](/coding-classes-for-9-and-10-year-olds-australia) The age when many children make the move. ### [Game development for kids](/game-development-for-kids-australia) Python games and what follows. ### [Python for 10 year olds](/python-for-10-year-olds) A first Python course at ten. Start here ## Book a free first class Send your details and we will ring at a time that suits. In the free class your child turns a few of their own Scratch blocks into Python with a teacher, and you hear honestly whether now is the moment to move. Reading before you book? [How we teach](/how-we-teach) shows a lesson in detail, and the [courses](/courses) page maps out what follows Python. [WhatsApp us](https://wa.me/919123366161?text=Hello%20Modern%20Age%20Coders%2C%20our%20child%20in%20Australia%20knows%20Scratch%20and%20wants%20to%20learn%20Python.%20Could%20we%20book%20a%20free%20first%20class%3F) · [+91 91233 66161](tel:+919123366161) · [connect@modernagecoders.com](mailto:connect@modernagecoders.com) WhatsApp is the quickest way to reach us from most Australian phones. The +91 prefix reflects our India-based team; we have no Australian office. ### Want a class sooner? Book a priority demo A priority demo is a full class of about 45 to 60 minutes. After the class the mentor sends a written skill report and a personal learning roadmap on WhatsApp. If you enrol, the demo fee is adjusted against your first month's fee. Share your demo Order ID with us on WhatsApp and we take it off. [Book a priority demo](/book-demo) ## Keep exploring Modern Age Coders ### Related courses and guides - [AI and Python Academy, Amsterdam](/ai-and-python-academy-amsterdam) - [After the micro:bit: The Next Step to Python, UK](/after-microbit-next-step-python-uk) - [AI and Python Academy, Eindhoven](/ai-and-python-academy-eindhoven) - [Python From the Ground Up: Complete, In-Depth Python Course](/python-from-the-ground-up) - [AI and Python Academy, Groningen](/ai-and-python-academy-groningen) - [Python for Machine Learning](/python-for-machine-learning) - [Online Coding and Python Classes in Beeston, Nottinghamshire](/online-coding-and-python-classes-in-beeston) - [Online Coding and Python Classes in Balwyn, Melbourne](/online-coding-and-python-classes-in-balwyn-melbourne) - [Online Coding and Python Classes in Ashton-under-Lyne, Tameside](/online-coding-and-python-classes-in-ashton-under-lyne) ### Learn more - [Coding Classes for 10 Year Olds Online: Scratch to Python](/coding-for-10-year-olds) - [Python AI Course for Kids in Australia](/python-ai-course-for-kids-australia) - [Coding for Class 4: Scratch, Block Coding & First Python for 9 Year Olds](/coding-for-class-4) - [Coding for Class 3: Scratch, Block Coding & First Python for 8 Year Olds](/coding-for-class-3) ### Free resources - [Python Tutorial for Beginners: Complete Guide](/resources/python) - [Scope, LEGB Rule, and Closures](/resources/python/scope-and-closures) - [Tuples in Python](/resources/python/tuples-in-python) - [Decorators and Iterators](/resources/python/decorators-and-iterators) ### From the blog - [Python Tutorials & Guides](/blog/topic/python) - [What Is Blockly? Block Coding for Kids, Explained](/blog/what-is-blockly-for-kids) - [Learn Python Step by Step: The Free Tutorial Library](/blog/learn-python-step-by-step) - [Armstrong Number: Definition, Full List and Python Program](/blog/armstrong-number-python-complete-guide-examples-code) ### Start here - [Book a free demo class with Modern Age Coders](/book-demo) - [Real projects built by Modern Age Coders students](/student-labs) Free class[Priority demo](/book-demo)[Call us](tel:+919123366161) --- *Canonical: https://learn.modernagecoders.com/after-scratch-next-step-python-australia*