NPA Data Science
This page provides a set of resources covering more than half of the NPA curriculum across levels 4, 5 and 6.
Materials are provided for use with Excel and Python.
The NPA can be achieved using only a basic spreadsheet tool, such as Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. It is important that learners gain a secure grounding in their knowledge of data science and statistical concepts. Gaining experience with particular tools or programming languages that might be favoured by industry is much less important to learners at this stage of their career. Although it is not a requirement, Level 6 learners might benefit from carrying out data analysis and visualisation tasks using a programming language.
All links below point to pages which link to zip files containing PowerPoint lessons along with the relevant additional resources, such as worksheets with answers, Excel spreadsheets, and/or Python code.
If you require these documents in an alternative format, such as large print or a coloured background, please contact dataschools@ed.ac.uk.
Updated Units
The SQA has recently published updated unit specifications for Data Science and Data Citizenship (as of this SQA blog post). For a detailed comparison of the changes made to the unit performance criteria and outcomes, check this presentation:
It can be chosen whether to offer the old units or revised units (most likely until session 2026/2027. We are working on making comprehensive notes corresponding to the new unit outcomes and performance criteria. As these become ready, they will be placed on this site.
All lessons
Each topic below is recommended to be covered in one to two lessons. Some topics contain two parts for Python, which are aimed to be covered in two classes. Click on the pages for more details and download links.