Software Developer Level 4 Apprenticeship

Real-world coding, AI-assisted development, and full-stack skills for productive developer careers

Train junior developers or upskill your team with an apprenticeship built around Git, APIs, databases, agile delivery and secure coding – with AI tools embedded throughout. Workplace-ready from month one.

This apprenticeship prepares developers to contribute across the full Software Development Life Cycle using the tools and practices professional developers actually use in 2025. That includes AI coding assistants like GitHub Copilot, Cursor, and Claude Code — not as an add-on, but as a core part of how the work gets done. Apprentices learn Git and version control, semantic HTML, API integration, database fundamentals, testing, debugging and secure coding alongside how to use large language models effectively, when to trust AI-generated code, and how to work with AI as a genuine development partner rather than a shortcut.

For employers: Gain a productive, billable team member quickly — one who understands modern development practice, including how to use AI tools safely and effectively. Improve internal workflows, strengthen agile delivery, and reduce reliance on contractors. Funded through the Growth and Skills Levy: 95–100% covered for most employers. The Coders Guild led the R&D that created the UK’s first Level 4 AI and Automation apprenticeship standard with Skills England and the Alan Turing Institute.

For learners: Build real skills using the tools professional developers use every day — including AI coding assistants, vibe coding techniques, and large language model integration. Develop the adaptable, modern practice that supports immediate contribution and long-term progression in any development team.

Application → Training → Portfolio Building → EPA → Qualified Developer

Course content

Immediate Billable Skills

Version control and collaboration with Git
Semantic HTML and accessibility
Introduction to software development workflows
Using AI coding assistants (GitHub Copilot, Cursor, Claude Code) in real development workflows
Understanding when and how to apply AI-generated code safely

Toolchain Essentials

Debugging and testing strategies
Planning and estimation
Databases and data storage (SQL and NoSQL)

Project Life Cycle

Agile theory and practice (Scrum, Kanban)
Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
APIs and integration

Advanced Knowledge

Security and authentication
Working with large language models in development: prompting, evaluation, and integration
AI pair programming and vibe coding techniques
Project planning workshop
Mock EPA and portfolio building

Delivery

Online or hybrid delivery with monthly group sessions, 1:1 coaching, and optional webinars. Project-based assignments aligned to real workplace tasks. Learners contribute to their portfolio throughout, with regular tripartite reviews every 8-12 weeks.

Assessment

End-point assessment (EPA) including portfolio review, professional discussion, and practical coding assessment. Apprentices build evidence throughout the programme using real work projects and reflective practice.

Want to Become an Apprentice?

Apply online through our simple formJoin our talent poolWe match you with real employersStart earning while you learn

I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship. The apprenticeship helps you gain both theoretical and practical knowledge.

Joanna Sipowicz

Test Analyst

The Coders Guild are adept at putting together course content that’s relevant to business in today’s market, with practical tools & skills that can be implemented from day one.

Liz Leith

Service Design & Delivery Manager

I’d like to say that my apprenticeship experience with The Coders Guild and Dedalus has been outstanding so far. The support, structured learning, and opportunities for growth have exceeded my expectations.

Anna Trubnikova

Software Developer Apprentice

FAQs for Employers

How does the funding work?

The Software Developer Level 4 Apprenticeship is funded through the Growth and Skills Levy. If your organisation pays the levy (wage bill over £3 million), training comes directly from your levy pot at no additional cost. If you’re an SME with a wage bill under £3 million, the government covers 95% of training costs — you contribute 5%. We handle all the admin and guide you through the process from start to finish.

Is the training aligned to our business needs?

Yes. Every apprenticeship is built around the apprentice’s real job. We collaborate with you to shape project work and tasks that directly support your team’s priorities, goals, and systems.

Do you teach specific tools or platforms?

We’re platform-agnostic and industry-led. That means we teach the principles, methods, and skills that matter — and adapt them to your team’s tools, tech stack, and workflows. Whether it’s React or Vue, Python or JavaScript, we meet you where you are. That includes AI tooling: we teach apprentices to work with GitHub Copilot, Cursor, Claude Code, and other AI coding assistants as part of standard development practice — because that’s what modern professional development looks like.

What kind of support do we get?

From onboarding to endpoint assessment, you’ll have access to our support team, technical coaches, and account managers. We handle compliance and reporting, keep you in the loop on progress, and are always here if anything’s not working.

Can we enrol existing staff?

Definitely. Apprenticeships are ideal for upskilling or reskilling current employees. It’s a practical way to retain talent, deepen expertise, and build internal capability in a cost-effective way.

How will we know it's working?

You’ll see the impact in-role. Apprentices bring their learning straight into the day job. We also check in with managers, gather regular feedback, and provide reporting so you can see development over time.

Who is this apprenticeship suitable for in our team?

Junior developers in tech teams, IT support or QA staff moving into coding, technical assistants in SMEs, career changers with strong digital skills, employees with informal coding experience, or apprentices progressing from Level 3.

What can our apprentice contribute from day one?

From the first module, apprentices learn immediate billable skills like Git, version control, and semantic HTML. They’ll be contributing to real projects, improving workflows, and solving workplace problems within the first few months.

FAQs for Learners

Do I need to be technical already?

Not necessarily. Some apprentices are brand new to the field, others are building on existing experience. If your job fits the apprenticeship and you’re ready to learn, we’ll support you from wherever you’re starting.

Will I learn tools I actually use at work?

Yes. Our training adapts to your workplace. We focus on concepts and skills that apply across tools, and we’ll work with your employer to match your learning tasks to the systems and platforms you use day-to-day.

What's the time commitment?

You’ll spend 6 hours a week on off-the-job learning – things like workshops, mentoring, group projects, and self-study. It all fits around your work schedule, and we help you manage it in a sustainable way.

What support will I get?

You’ll have access to tutors, technical coaches, and peer groups throughout the apprenticeship. We’re here to answer questions, troubleshoot challenges, and celebrate your wins. Plus, you’ll check in regularly with your line manager.

Is this like school or university?

Nope. This is workplace-first, challenge-based learning. You won’t be stuck in lectures. You’ll learn by doing, solving real problems, working with peers, and applying everything in context.

What happens at the end?

You’ll complete an end-point assessment and, if you pass, gain a nationally recognised qualification. Most apprentices continue in their role, take on more responsibility, or move up into a more advanced position.

Will I get paid?

Yes. This is a full-time employed role with a salary. You earn while you learn and contribute to real projects from day one.

How long does the apprenticeship take?

12-18 months typically, depending on your starting point and the pace of portfolio development.

Software Developer Level 4 Apprenticeship