Course overview
A software tester is a crucial role in any organisation involved in software development. Whether it's a large multinational company or a small consulting firm, software testers ensure that the software meets the required functional, security, performance, and usability standards. They participate in all stages of the software development life cycle to ensure quality and compliance.
Software testers work across various industries and projects. For example, in financial services, they may test software for delivering payroll or HR services, while in a corporate setting, they might provide consultancy services to global clients across different software products. Their responsibilities include analysing software and systems to identify potential issues, making recommendations to clients, and conducting manual and automated tests to eliminate bugs and ensure the software performs as intended.
Software testers play a vital role in creating and deploying software systems and technical products. They collaborate with software testing teams, other departments within the organisation, and external clients and stakeholders. This is typically an office-based or remote working role, with occasional visits to client premises.
In their daily work, software testers apply their knowledge and skills to address both routine and non-routine problems. They work collaboratively within a team, often paired with other technical roles like software developers, and may also work independently. They provide input for planning, risk assessment, and improvement initiatives within software products. Software testers take ownership of their work, including the supervision of others and resource allocation, within established parameters.
The learner journey
1. 18 months on-programme – This is when the individual will learn the skills, knowledge and behaviours which will support them for their End-Point Assessment. The learner could partake in a combination of activities, such as classroom based sessions, mentoring, shadowing, bespoke resources and off-site visits in order to support their learning and development.
You will be required to spend at least six hours a week on off-the-job training in order to meet the course requirements.
2. Gateway – After the 18 months teaching and learning, you, your training provider and the learner will review the learners journey and decide whether it is the right time for the on-programme assessment.
3. End-Point Assessment – This is when your learner will need to demonstrate they have learnt the required knowledge, skills and behaviours, through an on demand knowledge test, a professional discussion, practical observation and business project.
Eligibility
Those with an annual wage bill of less than £3m do not pay the Apprenticeship Levy. Instead, 95% of each apprenticeship is funded by the government whilst a 5% investment is required by the employer to enhance the skills of their employee.
- Employers are also be eligible for a £1000 incentive payment if the apprentice is aged 16–18.
- Employers with less than 50 employees and where the apprentice is aged 16–18, the government will fund 100% of the apprentice and are eligible for a £1000 incentive payment.
- Employers with those aged 19+ the government will continue to fund 95% of the apprenticeship programme whilst a 5% investment is required by the employer.
Businesses can manage this through the Apprenticeship Service online account.
Find out more
To learn additional information about this apprenticeship, you can explore our Course Sheet or Learner Journey.