Celebrate National Apprenticeship Week with QA
Software Engineer Level 4 Apprenticeship
Software engineers are the architects of our digital world – turning ideas into innovative solutions, building the applications, platforms, and systems that power businesses.
Trusted by 7,000+ organisations globally
Why choose our Software Engineer apprenticeship?
Equip your organisation with essential skills for software development
Develop the core skills in your organisation to design and deliver robust software applications using industry-standard tools, frameworks, and agile practices.
- Close the digital skills gap
- Empower innovation
- Diversify teams
Entry requirements
The entry requirements for this programme are as follows:
- The learner must have completed a Level 3 Software Development Apprenticeship with QA or have an equivalent qualification with another training provider
- OR an A-level in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) subject and a successful completion of our aptitude test
- OR a BTEC Diploma in IT and a successful completion of our aptitude test
- OR 2 years’ experience in a relevant role and successful completion of our aptitude test
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 - Introduction to Software Development
- Module 2 - Building Responsive Web Applications
- Module 3 - Automation and Software Quality
- Module 4 - Design and DevOps
- Module 5 - Software Craft
- Module 6 - Microservices and APIs
EPA | 4 months
Professional discussion
Work-based project with questioning
Qualification
IfATE Software Developer Standard
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:
- Software Developer
- Application Developer
- Junior Developer
- Web Developer
- DevOps Engineer
- Back-End or Front-End Developer
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 £18,000. 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
This programme immerses learners in real-world tech stacks and development tools, inlcuding:
Programming Languages & Frameworks:
- Python
- Java
- HTML, CSS, JavaScript
- React
Development & Version Control:
- Git, GitHub
- Eclipse
Testing & Build Tools:
- JUnit
- Selenium
- Maven
Software & Databases:
- SQL, JDBC, SQLite
- REST
- AWS (RDS, DynamoDB)
Tools & Methodologies:
- Trello
- Agile, Scrum, Waterfall
- Microservices vs. Monolithic Architecture
- Pair Programming
- Test-Driven Development (TDD)
- Behaviour-Driven Development (BDD)
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: IfATE Software Developer Standard
- Total cost: £18,000
- Programme duration: 19 months
- Live instructor sessions: 25 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.”
“Originally I was trying to get into med school but couldn’t garner enough funding. I had heard about apprenticeships in school before so I thought I should give that a try. Now, I’m getting paid to learn something I love to do and I really do feel I could become anything and that the sky’s the limit. I think apprenticeships are inclusive, flexible, and challenging.”
Related programmes
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.