Technology
Software Engineering Apprenticeship Ref. 3867
MI5
Location
London
Salary
£28,556 to £31,154 (depending on organisation) in London or £29,081 in Greater Manchester
Duration
3 years
Positions available
1
Level
Level 6 – Degree
Degree awarded
BSc (Hons) Degree in Digital and Technology Solutions
Start date
1 August 2027
Vacancy reference
3867
Minimum grades
96 UCAS tariff points from Level 3 qualifications, GCSE English Language and Mathematics Grade 4/C or above
Disability Confident
✓ Yes
About the role
A three-year software engineering apprenticeship combining university-accredited classroom learning with technical training, mentoring, and work-based projects. You'll develop skills working alongside teams that design, build and maintain software solutions supporting national security. The programme includes rotations through various product teams, exposure to modern cloud-based solutions across AWS and Azure, and experience with technologies including Java, C#, Python, TypeScript, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, GraphQL, Elasticsearch and Oracle.
Requirements
British citizen or dual British nationality required. Must achieve 96 UCAS tariff points from Level 3 qualifications (A Levels, BTECs, T Levels, apprenticeships, or equivalent). GCSE English Language and Mathematics at Grade 4/C or above (or Functional Skills Level 2 equivalents). Must not have completed or be due to complete a Level 4 qualification (or higher) in Software Engineering or related subject before starting. Pass online Situational Judgement Test, online aptitude test, and interview. Require Developed Vetting (DV) security clearance. Must be able to live within commutable distance of London or Greater Manchester.
Skills
Software developmentJavaC#PythonTypeScriptCloud platforms (AWSAzure)Database management (PostgreSQLMongoDBOracle)GraphQLElasticsearchProblem-solvingTeamworkCommunicationLeadership
Required qualifications
Essential
Level 3 qualifications · Any · Grade 96 UCAS tariff points
Essential
GCSE · English Language · Grade 4
Essential
GCSE · Mathematics · Grade 4
Training & development
Full training provided in software engineering fundamentals. University-accredited classroom learning (in-person and virtual), technical training, mentoring, job shadowing, research and development, and work-based placements and projects. Training in technical skills (programming languages, cloud platforms, tools) and non-technical abilities such as time management and presenting. Access to industry events, professional certifications, and training sites in London and Greater Manchester.
Additional training
Access to employee networks, mentoring, and communities supporting representation in technology profession including specific support for women in tech. Development aligned to Government Digital and Data Profession Capability Framework (GDDPCF) to guide career progression.
Future prospects
Successful completion may lead to further career opportunities within MI5 or MI6, subject to meeting required academic and behavioural standards, organisational need, and maintenance of necessary security clearances. Opportunity for full-time employment at end of apprenticeship.
Company benefits
£28,556 to £31,154 (depending on organisation) in London or £29,081 in Greater Manchester. 25 days annual leave rising to 30 days after 5 years' service, plus 10.5 days public and privilege holidays. Employee performance scheme recognition opportunities. Personal learning budget (MI5 only). Interest-free season ticket loan. Excellent pension scheme. Subsidised gym, restaurant, and on-site coffee bars (at some locations). Paid parental and adoption leave. Interest-free loan via benevolent fund available to assist with relocating into privately rented accommodation.
About MI5
MI5 and MI6 are part of the UK's Intelligence Services. They work together to safeguard Britain's people, interests, and businesses from various threats at home, overseas and online, including cyber-attacks, espionage, terrorism, and organised crime.
Website
www.mi5.gov.uk/careersIf this one works out
This role is in London. If you'd be moving for it, a room in a shared house there typically runs £900–£1,400 a month.