Digital and Technology Solutions Degree Apprentice

Location:

Bristol, GB, BS3 2HQ
Devonport, Plymouth, GB, PL2 2BG

Onsite or Hybrid:
On Site

Programme title:Digital and Technology Solutions Apprenticeship – Software Engineering Pathway
Level: 6

Salary:£23,776
Location: Bristol (Ashton House) and Plymouth

Role

Our 5-year Digital and Technology Solutions Apprenticeship offers an exciting opportunity to kickstart your career in software engineering. You’ll work on real projects while studying for a BSc Honours Degree in Digital and Technology Solutions with the University of Exeter – combining academic learning with industry experience.

About the programme

From day one, you’ll be part of our Mission Systems business, helping us develop innovative software that supports national security and defence. From cutting edge development of machine learning models to intelligent sensor technologies able to analyse the electromagnetic environment, our software needs to be proven, reliable and fully integrated.

You’ll work in design offices, laboratories and workshops, contributing to live projects in areas such as submarine systems, communications and security, command and control and electronic warfare. Whether you're helping to build an audio console or supporting software for a world-class ship, you'll be involved in the full development lifecycle – from concept through to testing.

This programme offers the opportunity to develop skills across both traditional and modern software development practices, including Agile ways of working and AI-assisted development techniques used within the defence sector. Working alongside experienced professionals, you'll gain hands‑on experience, build your technical expertise, and develop the skills needed to contribute to real-world projects from the start.

These skills will enable you to contribute to the delivery of innovative digital technologies that help keep people, assets and information safe – supporting our shared purpose of creating a safe and secure world, together.

As part of your apprenticeship, you will study for the BSc (Hons) Digital and Technology Solutions through the University of Exeter.

You’ll complete your studies part-time over four years while gaining hands‑on experience in the workplace. In years 1 and 2, you’ll build a strong foundation in digital technologies. In years 3 and 4, you’ll specialise in Software Engineering. During your final year, you’ll work full‑time in placements while completing your End Point Assessment.

Your technical training will be supplemented with in‑house training courses and soft skill training to further develop your personal and team working skills.

By the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll have earned a BSc Honours Degree in Digital and Technology Solutions and gained rich work experience in software engineering.

In addition to your technical development, you’ll have built valuable project management skills through activities such as project planning, resourcing, budgeting, document management, and configuration control.

Upon successful completion of your apprenticeship, you’ll be ready to progress into your first substantive role within the business – typically as an Assistant Software Engineer or Software Engineer.

Apprentices who complete the programme can expect a competitive starting salary in software engineering, along with opportunities to pursue professional registration and chartership, supported by experienced mentors and industry professionals.

What you’ll need

• A minimum of five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above (or equivalent), plus one of the following:
  • A minimum of three A Levels at grade B or above, preferably in related subjects such as Mathematics, Science, or IT.
  • BTEC Level 3 Extended…