The OS python is there to satisfy other OS dependencies, and only occasionally for you.
If you care about the Python version, you are much better off with an independent python install, I personally recommend conda - it lets you run different python versions for different uses, all shielded from OS upgrades (whether minor dist-upgrade or complete distribution change -- or $DIETY forbid joining a Redmond religion).
I have heard good things about Enthought Python, but don't have experience with it. And you can always build the latest yourself and build a .dpkg for your company.
If you care about the Python version, you are much better off with an independent python install, I personally recommend conda - it lets you run different python versions for different uses, all shielded from OS upgrades (whether minor dist-upgrade or complete distribution change -- or $DIETY forbid joining a Redmond religion).
I have heard good things about Enthought Python, but don't have experience with it. And you can always build the latest yourself and build a .dpkg for your company.