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Description

Programming in Python: Writing Your First Scripts, Structuring and Automating

Write your first Python scripts and automate repetitive calculations without relying on spreadsheets

  • 2 days — 14 h
  • In-person or virtual
  • Foundation
  • Up to 6 participants

Recurring calculations end up in workbooks that keep growing until nobody dares to modify them. Macros are passed on without documentation and the same computations are re-run manually every month. Python is sometimes already installed on the workstation, but the absence of programming fundamentals prevents teams from taking the first step.

A short introductory programme in Python programming. You set up a working environment and write your first scripts. You work with data structures and functions. You automate an end-to-end file processing task using figures close to your own activity.

Learning objectives

  • Set up a Python environment and run a first script
  • Work with common data types and data structures
  • Write conditions and loops to process a series of values
  • Define reusable and documented functions
  • Automate the reading and writing of data files

What makes this programme different

Exercises are based on financial calculations rather than abstract examples
Each participant leaves with an automation script they have written themselves
Runtime errors are deliberately triggered and then corrected during the session

Programme

1First Steps in Python

Writing and running code

  • Installing the interpreter and a working editor
  • Working with numbers, strings and booleans
  • Using variables and basic operations
  • Reading an error message and correcting the script

2Data Structures and Control Flow

Processing series of values

  • Using lists, dictionaries and tuples
  • Writing conditions and loops
  • Iterating through a series of values and aggregating it
  • Defining functions with parameters and a return value

3Automating a Processing Task

From a standalone script to a recurring process

  • Reading and writing data files
  • Chaining the steps of a process within a single script
  • Adding checks and progress messages
  • Organising and commenting code so it can be handed over

Who is it for

Analysts, management controllers, junior actuaries and banking and insurance professionals wishing to automate their calculations.

Prerequisites

No prerequisites

Dates & locations

36 scheduled dates between November 2026 and December 2027. Seats are confirmed in the order enquiries are received.

November 2026

December 2026

January 2027

February 2027

March 2027

April 2027

May 2027

June 2027

September 2027

October 2027

November 2027

December 2027

None of these dates suit you? We open additional sessions on request, and any programme can be run privately for your team.

Practical details

Before the programme
Online positioning questionnaire. Your development objectives are shared with the trainer, who tailors the practical case studies to your context.
Teaching methods
Theoretical input, workshops and practical case studies. Digital course materials and method sheets provided.
Assessment
Multiple-choice tests and role-play exercises. Assessment of learning at the start and end of the programme, with immediate and 60-day follow-up evaluations.
After the programme
One year of access to the e-learning platform. Self-assessment of the skills acquired and a 30-day follow-up session with your trainer.
How to register
Registration online or on the basis of a quotation.
Lead time
11 working days after confirmation of registration.
Accessibility
Accessible to people of determination. Contact our accessibility coordinator to design a suitable solution: contact@mpf-academy.ae
Start dates
Rolling intake: in addition to the scheduled sessions, this programme can start on request.