Funded Courses:
Software Developer Level 4

> Funding: £18,000

> Duration: 24 Months

Course Overview

The Software Developer Level 4 apprenticeship develops the knowledge, skills and behaviours required to design, build, test and maintain software solutions across the development life cycle.
Learners explore programming fundamentals, system architecture principles, testing techniques, software quality practices and secure coding. They work with development tools, version control systems, debugging and integration processes. The programme emphasises practical work-based application, ensuring learners apply skills within real projects used by their organisation.

Through structured learning and workplace tasks, learners build confidence in writing maintainable code, interpreting technical requirements, collaborating with team members and producing high-quality technical documentation. They also develop professional communication, analytical thinking and reflective practice, enabling them to respond effectively to technical challenges.

By completion, individuals are prepared to contribute to software delivery within multi-disciplinary teams and support organisations in producing reliable, secure and scalable software solutions.

Eligibility Criteria

  • UK/EU Citizen for 3+ years
  • Work 16+ hours per week on average
  • Employed on a PAYE Scheme
  • Not on any other government-funded course
Ai Savvy Funded Courses - Skills Funding Group
Ai Savvy Funded Courses - Skills Funding Group

Employer Benefits: After Course Completion

Employers benefit from developers who increase delivery capability, improve code quality and support reliable software outcomes.

Employers benefit from staff who:

  • Contribute across the software lifecycle, from understanding requirements to coding, testing, and documentation
  • Apply a structured development approach that ensures consistency, quality, and secure practice
  • Communicate effectively with team members and document outcomes clearly
  • Assist with technical problem-solving


This course provides:

  • Structured, work-based development aligned to national occupational standards for software development
  • Capability in programming fundamentals, development frameworks, testing practices, version control, and documentation
  • Practical application of skills directly within business projects
  • Reinforcement of professional behaviours, technical communication, and problem-solving ability
  • Employers typically see:
  • Improved development throughput and stronger code quality
  • Clearer alignment between user requirements and delivered solutions
  • Support for test automation, accurate documentation, and peer collaboration
  • Reduced rework, clearer technical handovers, and better traceability across development activities


The programme supports:

  • Improved software delivery practices
  • Strengthened internal development capability
  • Enhanced quality assurance
  • A pipeline of technically capable team members
Ai Savvy Funded Courses - Skills Funding Group

Who is This Course For

Designed for individuals with foundational technical ability who are ready to build professional competence in software development.

Learning aligns with national occupational standards, building development capability that supports technology delivery and innovation across sectors.

This course is ideal for:

  • Are working in or aspiring to work in software development or technical roles
  • Require practical coding, problem-solving, and system design skills
  • Have some technical background (e.g., IT, computing, or related disciplines)
  • Want formal training, a recognised qualification, and practical development experience
  • Enjoy building solutions, debugging, and understanding user needs
  • Thrive in collaborative development team environments

Typical Job Roles Include:

  • Software Developer
  • Application Developer
  • Web Developer
  • Full Stack Developer
  • Mobile Developer
  • Back-end/Front-end Developer


This course is suitable for employers operating in:

  • Technology and Software Services
  • Digital Product Teams
  • Professional Services
  • Financial Services Technology Functions
  • Healthcare Technology
  • Education and Training Providers
  • Public Sector Digital Services

Preparation and Support

Throughout the programme, learners are supported to:

  • Build evidence of competence
  • Prepare for assessment requirements
  • Understand what to expect at EPA

This ensures apprentices approach the End Point Assessment with confidence and clarity.

Candidate Enrolment Form

Funding at a Glance

Many of our apprentices go on to secure permanent roles, promotions and long-term career progression within their organisations.

Funding Stream

  1. Apprenticeships (see the detail on funding
  2. Adult Education Budget (AEB)
  3. Mayoral Combined Authority (MCA)
  4. Advanced Learner Loans
  5. Additional Learning Needs (ALN)
  6. Learning & Development Support Scheme (LDSS)

Who It is For

  1. New or existing employees (in England)
  2. Adults 19+ meeting eligibility criteria
  3. Learners in devolved regions (within the UK)
  4. Individuals 19+ studying Level 3–6
  5. Learners requiring additional support (contact us for more information)
  6. Health and Adult Social Care Workforce

Who Pays

  1. Government via DAS (levy or co-investment)
  2. Government (National or devolved AEB)
  3. Regional government allocation
  4. Government-backed loan (repayable)
  5. Government support funding
  6. NHS funding contribution (national or devolved AEB)

Best Used For

  1. Structured role-based development aligned to occupational standards
  2. Entry-level qualifications, sector skills, career progression
  3. Skills aligned to local labour market priorities
  4. Professional qualifications where grant funding not available
  5. Removing barriers to participation and achievement
  6. Regulated roles and sector-specific qualifications

Employer Contribution

  1. Levy funds or typically 5% co-investment (if non-levy). This if  fully funded for under 22 year olds
  2. Often fully funded (subject to eligibility)
  3. Often fully or partially funded
  4. No employer cost (loan repaid by learner when eligible)
  5. No additional employer cost
  6. Reduces employer training costs (contact us for more detailed information)

Cost-Effective Recruitment

A Cost-Effective Way to Recruit and Develop Talent

Apprenticeships are one of the most financially supported recruitment routes available to UK employers.

£1,000 Government Incentive

Receive a £1,000 incentive when you recruit an apprentice aged 16–18, or 19–24 with an EHCP or care leaver status.

NI Contribution Exemption

Employers are exempt from paying National Insurance Contributions for apprentices under 25, provided they earn under the Upper Secondary Threshold.

95–100% Funded Training

Training costs are typically 95–100% government funded for non-levy paying employers — making apprenticeships significantly more cost-effective than traditional recruitment.

Proven Retention & Growth

Apprenticeships improve retention, engagement and progression. You build capability tailored to your business from day one.

How We Work

Ready to Recruit an Apprentice?

Submit your vacancy details and our team takes care of the rest. We make the process simple, compliant and commercially focused.

01

Review

We review your role for apprenticeship alignment and suitability.

02

Refine

Support you in refining the job description if needed to attract the right candidates.

03

Advertise

We advertise and promote your vacancy across our candidate network.

04

Screen

We screen and shortlist candidates based on your requirements.

05

Onboard

We guide you through the onboarding and funding process end-to-end.

What Makes Our Programmes Different?

We don’t take you out of your role — we develop you within it.

Our programmes are designed for people already in work, helping you build the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to perform at a higher level. Everything you learn is applied directly to your day-to-day responsibilities, so the impact is immediate, practical and measurable.

From enrolment through to completion, we support both you and your employer to ensure the training delivers real value.

Need more information or to discuss a way forward?

If you are not sure on what course may suit you, funding or how it all works, then get in touch and we can help and support and help you on your journey.