Software Developer

Level 4

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Software Developer

Level 4

Level 4/C or above in English and Maths GCSE

Level 4 Software Developer

20 months including EPA

Standard Overview

The Level 4 Software Developer Apprenticeship equips your organisation with advanced technical talent capable of creating sophisticated software solutions that enhance productivity and innovation.

This programme focuses on developing comprehensive skills in software design, development, and deployment across diverse industries.

Participants will learn to design and implement complex software systems, work effectively within development teams, and contribute to high-impact projects, gaining extensive hands-on experience throughout the software development lifecycle.

Standard Overview

This programme focuses on developing comprehensive skills in software design, development, and deployment across diverse industries.

Level 4/C or above in English and Maths GCSE

Level 4 Software Developer

20 months including EPA

Software Developer apprentices will learn:

Software Developer apprentices are suitable for organisations such as:

Tech Companies
IT Consultancies
IT Departments
Public Sector and Nonprofits

Typical Responsibilities

Typical responsibilities for a Software Developer Apprentice could include:

Coding & Software Development
Testing & Quality Assurance
Documentation & Code Management
User Support & Troubleshooting
Version Control & Collaboration
Research & Innovation
Data Collection & Performance Analysis
Agile Methodology Support
System Integration & Support
Continuous Learning & Development

Software Developer apprentices will learn:

Software Developer apprentices are suitable for organisations such as:

Tech Companies
IT Consultancies
IT Departments
Public Sector and Nonprofits

Typical Responsibilities

Typical responsibilities for a Software Developer Apprentice could include:

Coding & Software Development
Testing & Quality Assurance
Documentation & Code Management
User Support & Troubleshooting
Version Control & Collaboration
Research & Innovation
Data Collection & Performance Analysis
Agile Methodology Support
System Integration & Support
Continuous Learning & Development

Apprenticeships available nationally

100% pass rate. Every student, every time.

64.6% achievement rate. Our apprentices don’t just begin; they achieve success.

75% distinction rate. Excellence isn’t the goal; it’s the standard.

Apprenticeships available nationally

100% pass rate. Every student, every time.

64.6% achievement rate. Our apprentices don’t just begin; they achieve success.

75% distinction rate. Excellence isn’t the goal; it’s the standard.

Entry Requirements

A 4/C or above in English and Maths GCSE is essential. A keen interest in this field is also required.

Prior experience is not necessary, but useful and should be supported by a portfolio of evidence.

Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours

Knowledge and understanding

You will understand

The business context and market environment for software development
The structure of software applications
All stages of the software development lifecycle
The role of configuration management and version control systems and how to apply them
How to test their code (e.g. unit testing)
Different methodologies that can be used for software development
The particular context for the development platform (whether web, mobile, or desktop applications)
Your role within the software development team
How to implement code following a logical approach
How code integrates into the wider project
How to follow a set of functional and non-functional requirements
The end user context for the software development activity
How to connect code to specified data sources
Database normalisation
Why there is a need to follow good coding practices
The principles of good interface design
The importance of building in security to software at the development stage

Skills

Logical and creative thinking skills
Problem solving skills
Ability to work independently and to take responsibility
Can use own initiative

Behaviours

A thorough and organised approach
Ability to work with a range of internal and external people
Ability to communicate effectively in a variety of situations
Maintains productive, professional and secure working environment

Entry Requirements

A 4/C or above in English and Maths GCSE is essential. A keen interest in this field is also required.

Prior experience is not necessary, but useful and should be supported by a portfolio of evidence.

Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours

Knowledge and understanding

You will understand

The business context and market environment for software development
The structure of software applications
All stages of the software development lifecycle
The role of configuration management and version control systems and how to apply them
How to test their code (e.g. unit testing)
Different methodologies that can be used for software development
The particular context for the development platform (whether web, mobile, or desktop applications)
Your role within the software development team
How to implement code following a logical approach
How code integrates into the wider project
How to follow a set of functional and non-functional requirements
The end user context for the software development activity
How to connect code to specified data sources
Database normalisation
Why there is a need to follow good coding practices
The principles of good interface design
The importance of building in security to software at the development stage

Skills

Logical and creative thinking skills
Problem solving skills
Ability to work independently and to take responsibility
Can use own initiative

Behaviours

A thorough and organised approach
Ability to work with a range of internal and external people
Ability to communicate effectively in a variety of situations
Maintains productive, professional and secure working environment

Modules

Safe Working Practises
Electrical Fundamentals
Equipment Testing & Troubleshooting
Maintaining Equipment
Performance Spaces
Stage/Production Management Principles
Problem Solving
Lighting Equipment
Audio Equipment
Industry Awareness
Wellbeing
Programming and Operations
Storage and Logistics (Part 1)
Storage and Logistics (Part 2)

Technical Specifications – Lighting
Technical Specifications – Audio
LOLER
Automation
Scene Changes
Maintenance of Venue Systems
History of Theatre
Venue Budgeting
Production Design
Assemble and Configure Project Planning
Assemble and Configure Project – Execution

Modules

Apprentices will cover the following modules:

Navigating the workplace
Introduction to project planning
Project requirements
Algorithm design
Logic and data structures
Testing frameworks
Version control and deployment

Software development lifecycle
Professional development
User requirements
UX design
UX implementation
Databases and datasets
Software testing
Professional development

Modules

Apprentices will cover the following modules:

Navigating the workplace
Introduction to project planning
Project requirements
Algorithm design
Logic and data structures
Testing frameworks
Version control and deployment
Software development lifecycle
Professional development
User requirements
UX design
UX implementation
Databases and datasets
Software testing
Professional development

Employer Testimonials

PRG

"Access Industry consistently delivers an unparalleled level of excellence in their support for PRG's Live Event Technician Apprenticeship and Live Events Assistant Apprenticeship programs. Their bespoke service not only meets but exceeds our expectations, ensuring a seamless and enriching learning experience for our apprentices. Access Industry's commitment to personalised support and guidance sets the standard for exceptional partnership working in the realm of live event education."

NEC

“The combination of in-venue experience and regular training, provides our two Live Event Technician apprentices with plentiful opportunity to enhance the skills they’ve learnt in the classroom, on-the-job with our conventions team. It has been a pleasure to work with Access Creative College since 2022 and we look forward to supporting more students with their apprenticeships.”

4Wall

“Access Creative has supported us from the outset, they were committed to understanding the unique needs of our business and has been on hand at each stage of the onboarding process to answer any questions. Our apprentices have consistently demonstrated adaptability, teamwork skills and an eagerness to learn, and the curriculum provided by Access Creative has supported our apprenticeship team with the theory and knowledge necessary to thrive in our industry. It has been great to work collaboratively with Access Creative and we look forward to developing our relationship further in the future.”

Eclipse

“Our apprentice, though new to the industry, has made a positive impact on the team by demonstrating a strong willingness to learn, adaptability, and a proactive approach to tasks. Access Industry's (NCCI) apprenticeship programme is highly recommended for organisations seeking to develop skills in individuals with little or no prior experience. The program facilitates a seamless transition, allowing companies to play a vital role in shaping and enhancing the skills of apprentices, ensuring they contribute effectively to the relevant industry. ”

The Chameleon Agency

“Finding an apprentice through Access Industry has been a blessing for our agency. Not only was the process incredibly simple but the talent at Access is brilliant. It has been great working with them and having Amber as part of our team. She has developed brilliantly and is now working across internal and external projects of all sizes.”

Employer Testimonials

PRG

NEC

4Wall

Eclipse

The Chameleon Agency

Where do you see yourself?

This apprenticeship equips you with the skills to go onto:

Software Developer/Engineer

A Software Developer/Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software applications to meet users’ needs and solve complex problems.

Network Engineer

A Network Engineer designs, implements, manages, and troubleshoots network infrastructure to ensure reliable and secure communication between devices.

Data Scientist

A Data Scientist analyses and interprets complex data to provide actionable insights and support decision-making through statistical techniques and machine learning.

Cybersecurity Analyst and Tester

A Cybersecurity Analyst and Tester identifies, analyses, and mitigates security threats and vulnerabilities to protect an organisation’s systems and data.

IT Support Specialist

An IT Support Specialist is responsible for diagnosing and resolving technical issues, providing guidance, and ensuring the smooth operation of IT systems and software.

UI/UX Designer

A UX/UI Designer creates intuitive and visually appealing user interfaces and experiences by understanding user needs and behaviours, and applying design principles.

Where do you see yourself?

This apprenticeship equips you with the skills to go onto:

Software Developer/Engineer

A Software Developer/Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software applications to meet users’ needs and solve complex problems.

Network Engineer

A Network Engineer designs, implements, manages, and troubleshoots network infrastructure to ensure reliable and secure communication between devices.

Data Scientist

A Data Scientist analyses and interprets complex data to provide actionable insights and support decision-making through statistical techniques and machine learning.

Cybersecurity Analyst and Tester

A Cybersecurity Analyst and Tester identifies, analyses, and mitigates security threats and vulnerabilities to protect an organisation’s systems and data.

IT Support Specialist

An IT Support Specialist is responsible for diagnosing and resolving technical issues, providing guidance, and ensuring the smooth operation of IT systems and software.

UI/UX Designer

A UX/UI Designer creates intuitive and visually appealing user interfaces and experiences by understanding user needs and behaviours, and applying design principles.

Want to find out more?

Wondering how an apprenticeship can influence your future? If you’re considering career paths or seeking practical experience, we’re ready to assist you. Contact us today to discuss your choices and move closer to your ideal career!

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Understanding the industry (terms & relationships)

Health and safety standards including: manual handling, work at height, provision and use of work equipment, construction (design and management), noise, first aid, working hours, electricity at work, fire & emergency procedures, accident reporting and Technical Standards for Places of Entertainment.
Security and control of equipment protocols.
Management structures within a venue, etiquette and culture, including communication protocols and interdependencies of departments.
Relevant industry bodies and their roles e.g. HSE, ABTT, BECTU principles of stage and production management.
Creative venue safety systems.
The history, styles, architecture, terminology and acoustics of creative venues.

Planning

The selection of the correct tools and equipment for tasks such as assembling scenic components and truss and rigging lighting, audio and video equipment.
Computer-aided design – viewing, extracting information and realising specifications from system designs e.g. stage plans, lighting plans and sound schematics.
Environmental and sustainability protocols e.g. correct disposal of different lamp types and electronic equipment, reduction in use of PVC products.
Approaches to problem solving – to achieve the creative team’s requirements within the appropriate venue or production’s resources.
Competently use safety and access equipment e.g. personal and fall protection equipment, ladders, access towers and tallescopes.
Assemble and configure structures and systems from component parts.

Production Processes, Performance & Maintenance

The agreed industry safe working procedure: e.g. The Code of Conduct for Get-ins, Fit-ups and Getouts.
Recognition of production design elements – scenic, lighting, audio and visual e.g. means of scenic construction: timber, metal and textile. The properties of electricity, fixed and temporary electrical systems; theory, practice and safety e.g. to enable portable appliance testing of relevant technical equipment.
The properties of mechanical and electromechanical systems e.g. to enable the assembly and monitoring of hydraulic systems for scenic effect.
Lifting operations; theory and practice e.g. to enable monitoring of a lifting operation in compliance with LOLER such as performer flying.
How to identify potential improvements to systems and procedures to better enable the realisation of the creative team’s vision for the production.
Housekeeping – keeping venue work and storage areas clean, tidy and free from the build-up of waste materials.

To be eligible, applicants must be aged 16 or over, living in England and not taking part in full-time education. If they are already employed, they can start an apprenticeship in their current job to help them progress to a higher level position.

Apprenticeships range from Level 2 to Level 7. The levels and their equivalent qualifications are listed below:

Level 2 = 4 GCSEs

Level 3 = 3 A Levels

Level 4 & 5 = Foundation degree and HNC/D

Level 6 = Bachelor’s Degree

Level 7 = Master’s Degree

Access Industry currently offers apprenticeships up to Level 4, but we continually update available apprenticeships to meet learner needs and industry trends.