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 3 apprenticeship, for individuals who will be building simple applications for use in larger software developments.
A software development technician typically works as a junior member of a software development team, to build simple software components (whether web, mobile or desktop applications) to be used by other members of the team as part of larger software development projects or by end users.
Typical duration to gateway (excluding EPA period): 18 months.
Maximum funding: £15,000.
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; project report 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.
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 Development Technician EPA
The EPA consists of two assessment methods.
A 3,000-word project proposal designed to meet the needs of the business, delivering real business benefit, submitted within 4 weeks of the EPA start date.
There will also be a questioning session based on the project with an independent assessor which will last 40 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:
Level 3 Software Development Technician
Register your organisation and apprentices with us to access our EPA preparation materials.
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