Software Tester Level 4 Apprenticeship

Build confident, workplace-ready testers through exploratory testing, automation and agile delivery

Train your team in structured testing or launch your QA career. This apprenticeship develops practical testing capability from day one – covering AI testing, test automation, and the analytical skills that keep quality high as development gets faster.

This apprenticeship builds confident, workplace-ready software testers who understand testing principles, can design and execute exploratory and automated tests, and work effectively in agile teams. Learners apply practical techniques through real and simulated projects, developing core skills in communication, problem solving and quality thinking.

For employers: Improve software quality and reduce bugs in production. Build internal testing capability, reduce reliance on external QA resources, and support agile delivery and DevOps culture.

For learners: Understand testing principles and test types. Communicate effectively with developers and stakeholders. Design, plan and execute tests independently while building a portfolio of real-world testing activities.

Application → Training → Portfolio Building → EPA → Qualified Tester

Course content

Foundations

Core concepts of quality and testing
What is testing and what is quality?
Think like a tester

Testing Skills

Testing fundamentals and communication
Exploratory testing techniques
Bug identification and reporting

Agile & Planning

Testing in agile and waterfall contexts
Test strategies and planning
Retros and agile ceremonies

Specialisms

Technical testing and automation
Non-functional testing (accessibility, performance, security)
Test environments and data

Professional Practice

Presentation skills and showcases
Time management and CPD
MVP thinking and prioritisation

Delivery

Online delivery with monthly group sessions, 1:1 coaching, and webinars. Practical, challenge-based learning using real-world testing scenarios. Learners build a portfolio throughout, with mid and end reviews tracking progress and evidence against the Level 4 standard.

Assessment

End-point assessment (EPA) including portfolio review and professional discussion. Apprentices build evidence throughout using real or simulated testing projects, supported by trainers and coaches aligned to workplace application.

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?

Our apprenticeships are funded via the government’s levy scheme. If you’re a levy-paying organisation, training comes from your levy pot. If you’re an SME, we can secure 95–100% funding through co-investment or levy transfers – we’ll guide you through it all.

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 the tools, tech stack, and workflows your team uses. Whether it’s Jira or TestRail, Selenium or Cypress, we meet you where you are.

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.

How does this help reduce bugs in production?

Your apprentice learns to spot issues early through exploratory testing, communicate risks clearly to developers and stakeholders, and embed quality checks in agile sprints – reducing production bugs and improving delivery consistency.

Who is this apprenticeship suitable for in our team?

Junior QA and software testers, developers needing structured test training, admin or ops staff moving into technical roles, or anyone with logical thinking skills who wants to build testing capability.

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 testing work 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 Tester Level 4 Apprenticeship