Figarist · Sivochka Ihor

Online Python tutor for children

For students who want to write text-based code and create programs. We break problems into steps and test our solutions.

Individual Zoom lessons · 60 minutes · ages 6+ UAH 1000 per lesson
Discuss lessons on Telegram
See the lesson details

Minecraft · Python · 2021

The course behind my Minecraft lessons

In 2021 I received second place in the All-Ukrainian student research competition in Secondary Education (Computer Science). My work explored teaching programming foundations through Minecraft. Tasks included teleportation, building a fortress and laying rails with code.

The public materials from that course use mcpi. They are historical examples; current Minescript lessons require a different setup.

Second-place diploma · 2021 ↗

View Python examples on GitHub ↗

This direction

What we explore

What we explore

  • Variables, data types, conditions and loops
  • Functions, lists and data processing
  • Algorithms and debugging
  • Libraries for small projects

A clear process

How we learn

Each lesson connects a small idea with something the student can run, see or change.

  1. 01

    We discuss interests and explore example projects. Start from scratch or bring a game you are already making.

  2. 02

    Start small with a Turtle drawing or a text quiz. We explain the code step by step and add new features.

  3. 03

    I explain the logic and help students experiment and debug. If their interests change, we can switch projects or directions.

Experience you can inspect

Learn with a practising game developer

Explore my own projects on this website for examples of my development work. Teaching reviews are available on BUKI and the Ukrainian Tutors Association.

Before we start

Simple conditions, clear expectations

We discuss the goal and the setup before regular lessons begin.

Format

Individual Zoom lessons · 60 minutes · ages 6+

Price & payment

UAH 1000 per lesson
Payment to a sole proprietor account in hryvnias and foreign currency.

First message

Message me to discuss the format and a convenient schedule.

Lesson duration
60 minutes for every student. Lessons take place in your reserved time slot and finish on schedule.
First lesson
We start with a conversation with parents and, if needed, the child. The first lesson is paid.
Rescheduling
Please give at least one hour's notice to cancel or reschedule. With less notice, the lesson is charged.
Cancellation
Unforeseen circumstances in Ukraine are discussed individually. If I cannot teach a lesson, we agree to reschedule or cancel it. No payment is deducted for a lesson that did not take place because I was unavailable.
Payment order
Pay for one lesson or several in advance, whichever suits the family. Unused future lessons are refundable if you decide to stop.
Communication platform
Zoom with screen sharing. A camera is optional.
Technical requirements · Unity
A computer or laptop with Zoom, screen sharing and the software for the chosen subject.
Technical requirements · Python
A computer or laptop with Zoom, screen sharing and the software for the chosen subject.
Technical requirements · Scratch
A computer or tablet with Scratch, Zoom and screen sharing.
Homework
Homework is optional, according to the student's and parents' preferences.
Progress review
Projects and pace are individual, without a promise of a fixed result within a set number of lessons. Students and parents can send questions between lessons.

Experience you can inspect

Sivochka Ihor

I am a teacher and game developer. I have played games since childhood and have been learning and working with Unity since 2020. I enjoy creating games and helping others bring their ideas to life.

I began tutoring mathematics in my first year at a pedagogical university. Later I worked at a STEM school and gradually moved to online lessons during the pandemic. Today I teach at a school in Kharkiv and tutor children and teenagers online.

I want students to discover what they enjoy creating. Game development becomes a hobby for some and a future career for others. Some discover that they would rather explore a different field. I consider that a valuable outcome too.

Education and learning

Questions

Before starting

A few practical details parents and students often ask about.

Can Python be a first programming language?

We can start from short commands, variables and simple tasks. Scratch may be a better starting point for a younger child. We set the pace around understanding and practice.

Can we learn Python through Minecraft?

Yes. In a separate Minescript-based direction, coordinates, conditions and loops connect to actions in Minecraft. We discuss the computer and game setup beforehand.

Can students join from abroad?

Yes, lessons are online. Include your country or time zone and preferred times in your message.

What computer is needed?

A computer or laptop with Zoom, screen sharing and the software for the chosen subject. A computer or tablet with Scratch, Zoom and screen sharing.

How do I enquire?

Message @Figarist on Telegram with the student’s age, subject, experience and preferred times. I will reply about availability.

How do I pay for lessons?

Payment to a sole proprietor account in hryvnias and foreign currency.

Meet me on video

An earlier introduction to me and my lessons.

Watch on YouTube

Ready to discuss it?

Start with your goal

Tell me the learner’s age or your level, what you want to create and when lessons would suit you.

UAH 1000 per lesson

Discuss lessons on Telegram