New Revised Level 4 Software Developer Apprenticeship Standard
The new revised version of Level 4 Software Developer Standard has been updated and is available for all new Apprenticeship starts from the 01/06/2021.
Software Developers are found across every sector for example and 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 specification and then build and test high-quality code solutions to deliver the best outcome.
Software Developers will primarily be:
Building and testing simple, high-quality code for software.
Full time apprentices
Will typically spend 24 months on-programme (before the gateway) working towards the occupational Software Developer Apprenticeship Standard, with a minimum of 20% off-the-job training. All apprentices must spend a minimum of 12 months on-programme.
Typical duration to gateway (i.e., excluding EPA period): 24 months
Maximum funding: £18000
New Digital Apprenticeship Standards now include “Duties” to support alignment between a job role and the Apprenticeship Standard.
The Software Developer “Duties” enable the Employer and the Training Provider to ensure that an apprentice is in the right job role to enable them to gain exposure to the work required to successfully complete the Apprenticeship.
Other Key Changes
EPA Assessment Methods are different across all the New Digital Apprenticeship Standards.
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 EPA:
Software Developer End-point Assessment now consists of two different methods:
- A 4,500 word detailed Software Developer project designed to meet the needs of the business, delivering real business benefit.
- A 60 minute discussion with questions from an Independent Assessor on the work-based project.
Assessment Method 1 & 2 can be taken in any order and both must be passed to successfully complete the Software Developer Apprenticeship.