Overview
The primary role of a software developer is to build and test simple, high-quality code across front end, logic and database layers. A developer will typically be working as part of a larger team, in which they will have responsibility for some of the straightforward elements of the overall project. The developer will need to be able to interpret design documentation and specifications. The customer requirements will typically be defined and agreed by more experienced or specialist members of the team, such as a business analyst or technical architect.
The focus of this 24-month apprenticeship is to deliver a high-quality, hands-on learning experience. We will offer this through our teaching, which is delivered by industry professionals, our state-of-the-art facilities, and our focus on face-to-face delivery. The programme consists of in-person workshops, monthly coaching, and online learning to suit the needs of every apprentice and provide them with a high standard of teaching and learning.
Typical Job Roles: Web Developer, Application Developer, Mobile App Developer, Games Developer, Software Developer.
Delivery
The apprenticeship will be delivered online and in the workplace, with ongoing support from a dedicated performance coach.
End-point assessment (EPA)
The EPA can only be taken after the conditions of the Assessment Gateway have been successfully achieved:
- Software Development
- Methodologies Software Language
- Taken Level 2 English and Maths Assessment
On conclusion that the assessment gateway requirements have been achieved, the apprentice will be able to proceed to the end-point assessment stage of the apprenticeship. It is expected that apprentices will complete the assessment gateway requirements within three months of their planned apprenticeship completion.
EPA Consists of:
- Summative Portfolio
- Synoptic Project
- Employer reference
- Structured Interview (including discussion
based on the portfolio)
Progression and professional recognition
On completion of this standard, apprentices progress into software development with industry-recognised qualifications.
Functional skills
Apprentices must complete or have previously completed recognised English and Mathematics Level 1 qualifications and undertake the English and Mathematics Level 2 qualification during the apprenticeship.
For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3 and British Sign Language qualification is an alternative to English qualification for whom this is their primary language.
20% off-the-job training
Since the introduction of new style apprenticeships in May 2017, it’s been a requirement that every apprentice spends at least 20% of their time on off-the-job training. The required 20% off-the-job training hours will be calculated via the apprentices contracted hours of work, holiday entitlement and length of programme and will be clearly specified in our commitment statement. This requirement doesn’t have to be a daunting prospect – and doesn’t even mean the apprentice has to be away from their workplace 20% of the time.
Apprentice wages
Every apprentice must be paid a lawful wage for the time they are in work and in off the-job training. The employer must meet the cost of the apprentice’s wages. An employer can only pay the apprenticeship minimum wage from the start of the apprenticeship programme and not before. You can find information on the national minimum wage, the apprenticeship rate, and the definition of an employee on GOV.UK.