Apprenticeship Level 4 Software Developer : Standard
This apprenticeship will enable you to write good quality code with sound syntax in at least one language.
Course Summary

Course Information for Students
Who is this course for?
This apprenticeship will enable you to write good quality code with sound syntax in at least one language. It also covers:
- user interface
- test code and analysis results
- problem-solving
- designing simple data models and software designs
The course lasts for up to 24 months depending on your prior experience and qualifications. It entails 20% off-the-job training and an end-point assessment. Unless you have exemptions, you will also have to complete Level 2 Functional Maths and English.
Tuition is via Microsoft Teams or attendance at College: this is to be decided.
Entry Requirements
You need a minimum of a Level 3 – or equivalent qualification – relevant to this sector and Maths and English GCSE at grade C or above (4-9).
Your screening results should be at Level 2 for Maths and English.
You need to be in contracted work within a software developer position.
What will you learn?
You will cover:
- writing good quality code with sound syntax in at least one language
- user interface
- test code and analysis results
- problem solving
- designing simple data models and software designs
- applying good practice approaches to the relevant paradigm
You will need to complete Level 2 Functional Maths and English unless you can produce exemptions.
The course lasts for up to 24 months, depending on your prior experience and qualifications. It entails 20% off-the-job training and an end-point assessment.
Tuition is via Microsoft Teams or attendance at College: this is to be decided.
How will you learn?
The apprenticeship will be delivered in the workplace and on-site.
What will you need to bring with you?
You will be allocated an assessor/tutor to support you throughout the course. You will be assessed via:
- projects
- observations
- work products
- professional discussions
- mock papers
- end-point assessment
How will you be assessed?
There are 5% costs to the employer for any apprentice who is over 19.
You will need a laptop.
Where next?
- Enter the register of IT technicians confirming SFIA
- Advance to a higher level of qualification
- Progress to a management role
Who do you contact for more information?
For more information contact Derby College on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk
Is there any financial support available?
Course Information for Employers
Apprenticeship summary
The apprenticeship will cover:
- writing good quality code with sound syntax in at least one language
- user interface
- test code and analysis results
- problem-solving
- designing simple data models and software designs
They will also need to complete Level 2 Functional Maths and English unless exemptions can be produced.
The course lasts for up to 24 months depending on the apprentice’s prior experience and qualifications. It entails 20% off-the-job training and an end-point assessment.
Tuition is via Microsoft Teams or attendance at College: this is to be decided.
Are they any entry requirements for my apprentice?
The apprentice needs:
- a minimum of a Level 3 qualification relevant to this sector or the equivalent
- screening results to a Level 2 for Maths and English
- contracted work within a software developer postion
- Maths and English GCSE graded C and above/4-9
What is required from the employer in the workplace?
- Support and training
- 20% off-the-job training for the apprentice
- Paid time to attend College
Behaviours expected within the role
- Excellent time management
- Communication skills
- A commitment to pursue a career in development
- Motivation
What qualification will my apprentice gain?
- End-point assessment
- Maths and English Level 2 Functional Skills
What will the assessment look like?
The apprentice will be assessed via:
- projects
- observations
- work products
- professional discussions
- mock papers
- end-point assessment
Will my apprentice need to come into college?
Yes – if they are not exempt for Maths and English but this can also be delivered now on Microsoft Teams.
They will attend a tutorial one day a week, either on Microsoft Teams or in a classroom. This will be paid time as part of their working week.
Is there any specialist equipment required?
They need a laptop.
What progression can my apprentice expect after completion of their apprenticeship?
- Higher qualifications
- Higher positions within the organisation if available
What job roles will this apprenticeship be suitable for?
- Software developer
- Web developer
- Application developer
- Games developer
Will the college help me find an apprentice?
You may already have someone in your organisation or someone has come to you direct asking for an apprenticeship, but if you don’t we have a free recruitment service to help you hire the best candidate for your organisation from our talent pool and external advertising through social media and the national apprenticeship services website
Contact us
If you are an employer and you would like to know more, please email businessenquiries@derby-college.ac.uk or call 01332 387421
Career Information
This course could lead to one of these careers...
IT Quality and Testing Professionals
£33093
Programmers and Software Development Professionals
£46975
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Course Information Last Updated On: October 12, 2021 2:32 pm