Learn the essentials of SQL and discover how to unlock the power of data. Our foundational course explores core SQL techniques for querying and managing relational databases. It is ideal for anyone looking to build confidence with data and develop practical skills that can be applied immediately.
Introduction to SQL
Build a solid foundation in querying and understanding databases
Gain a strong grasp of SQL and learn how to query and manipulate relational databases with confidence. Our one-day introductory course explores essential SQL commands, guiding you through real-world examples so you can understand, structure and analyse data across a range of database systems.
Learning objectives
- Query database tables using SQL
- Write SELECT statements with supporting clauses
- Apply aggregate functions for data analysis
- Join multiple tables in a single query
- Create and use subqueries
- Understand and apply set operators
- Navigate relational database structures
- Use logical and conditional operators to refine results
What you’ll learn
You’ll learn how to query, filter and combine data from relational databases using standard SQL. Through interactive live labs and expert instruction, you will develop essential SQL skills, understand key functions and learn how to write efficient queries that apply across multiple platforms and environments.
SQL Basics
Learn to build SQL queries using the SELECT and FROM clauses, the building blocks of all SQL statements. Discover how to extract specific columns from tables, apply filters using the WHERE clause and improve clarity with column aliases. You will explore logical operators like AND, OR and NOT, apply arithmetic expressions and understand operator precedence to ensure accurate results every time.
Aggregate Functions
Explore how to summarise data using SQL’s aggregate functions including COUNT, SUM, AVG, MAX and MIN. Learn to group data with the GROUP BY clause and filter grouped results using HAVING. This section equips you to uncover meaningful insights, a key skill for building reports and dashboards.
Table Joins
Understand how to combine data from multiple tables using inner joins, outer joins and self joins. You will learn to use table aliases to simplify queries and write efficient code. This part of the course focuses on ANSI standard joins, providing a transferable skill set across major database systems.
Subqueries and set operators
Learn to write subqueries within SELECT, FROM and WHERE clauses to retrieve or filter data dynamically. You will also explore set operators such as UNION, INTERSECT and EXCEPT to combine results from multiple queries. These techniques allow you to solve complex data problems with precision and flexibility.
What’s included
- One-day of instructor-led training in a live virtual classroom
- Interactive hands-on live labs
- All relevant course materials
Key facts
Ideal for
Anyone new to SQL or working with relational databases who needs to write or understand SQL queries.
Prerequisites
No prior SQL experience is required, though basic familiarity with IT systems or databases is helpful.
Learning experience
Our experienced trainers and interactive labs create a focused, practical environment – so you can put theory into practice from day one.
FAQs
Our introductory course covers the essential SQL skills needed to extract and manipulate data in relational databases using standard SQL. It is practical and beginner-friendly, providing a strong foundation for building further technical knowledge and confidence with data.
How will this course help me at work?
This course focuses on the SQL skills that are directly relevant in the workplace. You will learn how to write SQL queries to retrieve, sort and filter data from relational databases. These are fundamental tasks in roles involving reporting, analysis or data preparation. Whether you are supporting IT systems, helping teams make data-driven decisions or maintaining application data, the course helps you work independently with SQL.
Will this course prepare me for more advanced SQL training?
Yes. This course introduces core SQL concepts including SELECT statements, table joins, subqueries and set operators. By teaching ANSI standard SQL, it equips you with transferable knowledge that supports progression to platform-specific courses such as Oracle SQL or Querying Microsoft SQL Server. It is an ideal starting point for those aiming to advance into reporting, data integration or database development.
Is this course suitable for people changing careers into tech?
Absolutely. If you are moving into a technology role, whether in data, software, systems or support, this course offers an accessible entry point. No prior programming experience is needed, only a general understanding of IT. You will learn database concepts step by step and gain the confidence to interact with data using clear and practical SQL examples.
Does the course use a specific database system?
No. This is a vendor-neutral course focused on ANSI standard SQL. Where useful, we highlight the differences between systems such as Oracle, SQL Server and MySQL to help broaden your understanding and prepare you for real-world scenarios.
What our customers say
“Course was informative and well-paced. Instructor was knowledgeable and explained the concept in a clear and well thought out manner.”
Tony, Programmer/Analyst - Academic
“Tarn is an excellent instructor. Everything was clearly communicated. One of the best courses I have attended in recent years.”
Simon, Senior DBA - Government
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