Software Developer

On a software developer apprenticeship course, you’ll help build and test simple, high-quality code for software.

The primary job of a software developer is to create and test simple, high-quality code for the front end, logic, and database levels.

As an apprentice developer, you will often work as part of a larger team, where you will be in charge of some of the more essential elements of the overall project.

You will comprehend design papers and requirements, while more experienced or specialised team members, such as a business analyst or technical architect, will create and agree on customer demands.

A software engineer may work in several areas, including web and app development. To succeed in this apprenticeship, you must be a logical and creative thinker with analytical and problem-solving abilities.

What you’ll learn

On a software developer apprenticeship course, you’ll learn to:

• Create code that is logical and simple to maintain.
• Design effective user interfaces.
• Carry out various tests, such as integration, system, user acceptability, non-functional, performance, and security testing.
• Identify and solve issues, utilise organised problem-solving techniques, debug code, and understand software structure.
• Create fundamental software designs that effectively communicate programme knowledge.
• Make analysis artefacts, such as use cases and/or user stories.
• Code creation, management, and deployment in the right environment.
• Use a software development approach appropriate for the relevant paradigm (for example, object-oriented, event-driven or procedural).
• Utilise algorithms, logic, and data structures.
• Comprehend and carry out a design while following security and maintainability guidelines.

Entry requirements

You’ll usually need:

• A-levels, a level 3 apprenticeship or other relevant qualifications, relevant experience and/or an aptitude test focusing on functional maths.
• Apprentices without level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this before taking the end-point assessment.

Assessment methods

The End Point Assessment comprises two distinct assessment methods: 

• Work-based project with questioning
• Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio

Duration, level, subjects and potential salary upon completion

Apprenticeship standard

More information about the Level 4 Software Developer Apprenticeship standard can be found here.

Apprenticeship end point assessment

For more information about the End Point Assessment Process, please read the Institute of Apprenticeships’ information page.