Note: This page is relevant to the current Standard version. If you are looking for an older version, please see link at the bottom of the page.
Apprenticeship Overview
A level 4 apprenticeship for individuals whose role is to build and test simple, high-quality code for software.
Software Developers are found across every sector in organisations ranging from large multi-nationals or public sector bodies to small consultancy firms designing bespoke software solutions for clients. The broad purpose of the occupation is to understand a client’s requirements as provided in design specifications and then build and test high-quality code solutions to deliver the best outcome.
Typical duration to gateway (excluding EPA period): 24 months.
Maximum funding: £18,000.
Entry Criteria
Individual employers will set the selection criteria, but this might include GCSEs, A levels, a level 2 apprenticeship, or other relevant qualifications.
Key information
There are no mandated knowledge modules or professional vendor certification for this apprenticeship standard. Although you may want to utilise professional vendor certification that has been mapped to the knowledge components listed in the apprenticeship standard, you will not be able to use apprenticeship funding to pay for the certification.
All knowledge, skills and behaviours will be assessed by the two different assessment methods: work-based project with questioning (AM1) and professional discussion underpinned by portfolio (AM2).
EPA Gateway
In addition to the employer’s confirmation that the apprentice is working at or above the level in the occupational standard, the apprentice must have completed the following gateway requirements prior to beginning end-point assessment (EPA).
For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and Mathematics minimum requirement is Entry Level 3. British Sign Language (BSL) qualifications are an alternative to English qualifications for those who have BSL as their primary language.
The apprentice must submit a project title and summary (500 words).
A selection of the best pieces of evidence gathered by an apprentice during their apprenticeship. The evidence should demonstrate how an apprentice has carried out specific work tasks mapped to the assessment criteria and knowledge, skills and behaviours listed in the assessment plan for AM2.
Software Developer EPA
The EPA consists of two assessment methods.
A 4,500-word project proposal designed to meet the needs of the business, delivering real business benefit, submitted within 9 weeks of the EPA start date.
There will also be a questioning session based on the project with an independent assessor which will last 60 minutes.
A 60-minute two-way discussion underpinned by the portfolio, which involves both the independent assessor and the apprentice actively listening and participating in a formal conversation.
Grading
Apprentices must pass both assessment methods (1 & 2), which can be taken in any order, to successfully complete their apprenticeship. Grades awarded are fail, pass, merit, or distinction. Apprentices will receive their grade ten working days after completing their final assessment method.
Links
Link to Apprenticeship Standard
Link to qualification specification
Link to relevant older Standard:
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