Celebrate National Apprenticeship Week with QA
Network Engineer Level 4 Apprenticeship
Network engineering is at the heart of efficient digital transformation. This programme equips organisations with essential skills to design, implement, and maintain physical, virtual, and cloud networks –maximising performance, security, and reliability.
Trusted by 7,000+ organisations globally
Why choose our Network Engineer apprenticeship?
Network engineering drives efficiency with reliable and scalable solutions
This programme concentrates on modern network infrastructure, advanced connectivity and advanced security, giving apprentices the technical grounding needed to design and optimise your core IT frameworks.
- Improve network designs
- Boost cyber security
- Optimise network efficiency
Entry requirements
The entry requirements for this programme are as follows:
- an A-Level in ICT
- OR an International Baccalaureate at Level 3 ICT
- OR an A-Level 3 apprenticeship in a similar subject
- OR a BTEC Extended Diploma in IT (180 credits)
Learner journey
The programme integrates live and online workshops with self-paced learning, employing a guided discovery approach for individual learner contexts.
Learners are assigned a Digital Learning Consultant (DLC) for personalised coaching and support. These specialists ensure their successful progress, wellbeing, and readiness for assessments.
Modules | 15 months
- Module 1 - Networking Fundamentals
- Module 2 - Networking Infrastructure
- Module 3 - Advanced Network Concepts
- Module 4 - Network Security
- Module 5 - Network Systems Administration
- Module 6 - Network Troubleshooting and Optimisation
- Module 7 - EPA Preparation
EPA | 3 months
Professional discussion
Simulation assessment and questioning
Optional certifications
CompTIA Network+
BCS Certificate in Information Security Management Principles (CISMP)
Qualification
IfATE NE4 Qualification Award
AI-powered apprenticeships
AI is for everyone, not just technical teams. Every QA apprenticeship programme includes built-in Microsoft Copilot training for every learner.
- No extra cost, no separate programme, just built-in AI modules
- Practical AI training designed for every role
- Develop AI readiness across your organisation
Job roles
This programme is suitable for multiple roles, such as:
- Network Engineer
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Infrastructure Engineer
- Network Technician
- Cloud Networking Specialist
- Network Support Engineer
- IT Systems Engineer
- Network Operations Engineer
Funding
There is no cost to you as an apprentice. Apprenticeships are fully funded through your employer.
If you are an employer, the maximum funding for this programme is £19,000. Expenses for travel to QA centres should be covered by the employer.
Find out how your organisation could benefit from the Apprenticeship Levy.
Tools and technologies
Network configuration:
- Cisco Packet Tracer
- Routing protocols
- DNS
- DHCP
Security & incident response:
- Network security
- Cloud incident response
Cloud services:
- Azure Monitor
- Azure Automation
- Azure Network
Storage & backup:
- RAID
Operating systems & virtualisation:
- Windows Networking
- Linux Networking
- Hyper-V
Digital by Design
Our market-leading approach accelerates skill development and achievement through our Discover, Practise, Apply methodology, ensuring that both learners and employers are fully supported throughout their programme.
Leveraging QA’s learning platform, learners follow a development path focused on their job role.
Learners come together for instructor-led training sessions, practising their skills through hands-on labs and sandboxes in a safe environment.
These learnings are applied through work-based activities at key and sequenced stages, supported by Digital Learning Consultants.
Overview
- Details of standard: Network Engineer
- Total cost: £19,000
- Programme duration: 18 months
- Live instructor sessions: 17 days
Apprenticeships, with added flex
Flexible durations. Tailored for you.
Our apprenticeship programme timelines are not set in stone – flexible options for Level 3-5 apprenticeships deliver the skills you need, when you need them. Talk to our experts to find out more.
What our learners say
“I have always had an interest in computer science and becoming a software developer, so this programme has given me a fantastic opportunity to get real-world experience and regular training in this field. For me to be working in an office, alongside senior software developers, absorbing knowledge on a daily basis has been crucial for my own development.”
“The Level 4 Network Engineer apprenticeship gave me strong technical capabilities and confidence to turn complex networking concepts into practical solutions. From mastering cloud services to leading a major migration project, I developed the ability to deliver secure, scalable improvements that enhanced both my performance and organisational goals.”
Become an Apprentice
Your first step is to apply for one of our apprentice jobs.
Apply for one of our apprentice roles by exploring current vacancies. By visiting our Apprenticeship platform you can explore, filter, and find the perfect opportunity to kickstart your career.
Upskill your entire team
Build skills, unlock potential
Recruit or train apprentices with our customised solutions. From identifying skill gaps to delivering training, we provide end-to-end support to help your team grow and achieve faster results.
Become an apprentice
If you're an individual interested in starting an apprenticeship, you can get in touch with us via our Apprenticeship platform.