Apprenticeship Overview
A level 4 apprenticeship, for individuals who work in organisations that develop and apply software. Software testers are responsible for ensuring that the software developed meets the business’s functional, security, performance, and usability requirements by participating in development activity at all stages of the software development life cycle. The Software Tester role is integral to the creation of software systems and technical products.
The type of organisation that will require this occupation will range from large multi-national organisations with dedicated teams of software testers to small consulting firms that work on a contract basis to deliver software testing services to a varied client base. For example, within financial services, a software tester could be integral to testing software for delivering bespoke payroll or HR services, whereas in a large corporate, they could be providing consultancy services for global multi-national clients across a range of software products
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 qualification.
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: scenario-based tests (AM1) and professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence (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.
No requirements.
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 Tester EPA
The EPA consists of two assessment methods.
Component 1: Scenario-based Test
Apprentices must complete three scenario-based tests set by the EPAO over two consecutive days.
Component 2: Questioning
Questioning will involve questions that focus on the scenario-based test. It is a structured 45-minute conversation with an independent assessor and is designed to draw out the best of the apprentice’s competence and excellence and covers the assessment criteria assigned to this assessment method.
A 75-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
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