Software development technician
Level 3 · AdvancedDigital 1.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
This Level 3 apprenticeship trains software development technicians to assist in building and maintaining software using coding, testing, and documentation skills. Apprentices work as part of a development team, contributing to real projects under the guidance of more senior developers. It can lead to progression onto the Level 4 Software Developer standard or junior developer roles.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Core programming concepts and writing code in a chosen language
Reading and interpreting software specifications and user stories
Basic database querying using SQL
Testing techniques and recording defects systematically
Using version control and development tools in a team
Understanding software development lifecycles
Communicating technical issues clearly to colleagues
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Write code modules under the guidance of senior developers
Run tests on software and log any defects found
Update and maintain existing software systems
Use version control to commit and track code changes
Query databases to retrieve or update information
Document code and update technical records
Attend team meetings and contribute to development discussions
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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