Software Tester Apprenticeship
Our Level 4 Software Tester apprenticeship ensures that your employees have the tools, techniques and skills to maintain quality control when developing software. It’s crucial to ensure that your software is reliable, and fit for purpose for everyday use. Software testing apprentices will be equipped to build and test high-quality code across multiple platforms and layers, preserving the robust nature and integrity of the software.
Skills gained with a software testing apprenticeship
A qualified Level 4 software tester can:
- Implement software testing procedures on software applications to ensure agreed errors and security issues are identified, recorded, prioritised and corrected before release
- Design and build test cases, test scripts and test procedures, with expected results
- Conduct a range of different software testing types
- Accurately record the outcomes of test activities and maintain accurate test records and reports
- Present and communicate results effectively using appropriate communication styles and media
- Operate the organisation’s software testing tools effectively and follow procedures and techniques correctly
- Complete allocated tasks in accordance with the organisation’s reporting and quality systems
- Design simple test strategies for non-complex projects
- Comply with relevant legislation and internal/external standards related to software testing and software security
Key information
- Duration
- 15 months plus assessment
- Study modes
- Online teaching, coaching and workplace development
- Qualifications Achieved
- Level 4 Software Tester
Benefits of a software tester apprenticeship
For employers
A software tester apprentice will help your business:
- Detect detects in software which can degrade systems or cause serious malfunctions
- Ensure that the software used is fit for purpose
- Understand the full scope of the software testing process, from understanding requirements, preparing test data to a range of testing levels and types
- Maintain quality control when developing software
- Equip itself to build and test high-quality code across multiple platforms and layers
For learners
An apprentice software tester can:
- Design and prepare test plans and conduct software testing
- Collect and interpret results of testing and make appropriate recommendations
- Document and report test results
- Store, manage and share test data in a secure manner
- Ensure that the software used within your business operates as intended
Knowledge Gained
A qualified level 4 software tester can use and apply the basic concepts of software testing, as well as how to use and apply automated test tools. They can also use bug tracking tools, and can communicate the differences between software testing and verification. Software testers have a full awareness of the importance of accuracy and clear documentation of software tests, and understand the need for conformance to specific standards where appropriate.
Programme Modules
- Testing Principles & Fundamentals
- Testing in the Software Lifecycle
- Testing Techniques and Tools
- Build & Best Software – Orientation
- Build & Test Software – Practical
- Accessibility Testing
- Basic Programming Concepts & OO Development
- Arrays, Functions & Error Handling in Java
- Introduction to Unit Testing in Java
- Ethical Hacking – Testing to Improve Security
- ISTQB Examination (Optional)
Assessment
Each apprenticeship course has a standard set of competencies – Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours – that are focused on throughout the programme. The Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours are evaluated through the End-Point Assessment (EPA), which is completed in the last month of the apprenticeship. The EPA is conducted by an external assessor, and will include the following elements that need to be completed in order to finish the apprenticeship.
- A portfolio
- A professional discussion
- A scenario based test
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements may vary depending on the requirements of the employer. Usually, a Level 3 qualification such as A Levels, NVQs, a BTEC or a Level 3 Apprenticeship will be required. Employers may also expect a minimum of 5 GCSEs with grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) including English and maths. Apprentices that don’t have GCSE English and maths at the required level may need to undertake mandatory Functional Skills as part of the apprenticeship to achieve Level 2 prior to End-Point Assessment.
Cost
This apprenticeship programme costs £18,000, all covered through the Apprenticeship Levy. Even if your business doesn’t pay into the Levy, the government funds 95% of all apprenticeship training, with your business only paying 5%.
Software Tester Apprenticeship Standard
The Software Tester Apprenticeship Standard outlines that this course is course is designed to teach learners to carry out tests to make sure that computer software works as intended and is fit for purpose. Duties you are expected to carry out as an apprentice software tester include:
- Analysing test objectives to design and prepare a test plan that aligns with the test strategy.
- Reviewing requirements with relevant stakeholders to identify defects early and to define a comprehensive test scope coverage based on product risk with due consideration to accessibility and usability requirements.
- Designing and building test cases, test scripts/procedures, and defining expected results to meet the test scope coverage criteria.
- Collecting, interpreting and developing representative and realistic test data.
- Specifying test environment requirements.
Why choose our software tester apprenticeship?
Estio is a leading provider of digital and technology apprenticeship programmes, offering a comprehensive apprenticeship course informed by industry expertise, and delivered remotely to ensure enough flexibility for your apprentice’s needs to be suited. Becoming a software testing apprentice could be the exciting first step in a brand new career.
What does a software tester apprentice do?
A software tester will typically help to design and prepare test plans, conducting software testing as appropriate to ensure that software is fit for purpose. They will help to document and report on the results of testing activities, having a good understanding of the software lifecycle and software development practices.
What is a software testing apprenticeship?
When studying for a software tester apprenticeship, the learner will learn both academically and practically on the job how to conduct various testing activities across the software development lifecycle, ensuring the software meets the business’s functional, security, performance, usability and other relevant requirements. A Level 4 software tester apprenticeship will equip learners with all the foundation knowledge needed to begin a career in software testing.
Job roles for software testing apprentice
- Software tester
- Software test analyst
What our employers say
From the offset, Estio have demonstrated commitment, professionalism and expertise and it is a pleasure working with them. We’re confident that our colleagues enrolled with Estio have an invaluable learning experience and we look forward to the future as we continue to work with Estio to deliver apprenticeships in the digital space.
What our learners say
I couldn’t recommend Estio Training enough for their delightfully helpful, hands-on team, who made my journey in finding my next career venture feel like such a completely stress-free and pleasant experience.
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