Technology
2027 Software Engineering Apprentice - Level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions Degree Apprenticeship
Thales Group · Exeter University
Location
Crawley, West Sussex
Postcode
RH10 9HA
Salary
£24,000 per annum
Duration
3.5 years
Hours per week
37h
Positions available
1
Level
Level 6 – Degree
Degree awarded
BSc in Digital and Technology Solutions
Start date
1 September 2027
Application deadline
17 February 2027
Vacancy reference
R0337707
Minimum grades
Three A Levels Grade B or above, or BTEC Extended Diploma (DDM), or T Level (Merit), or Level 4 Digital Apprenticeship. Minimum of five GCSEs at Grade 4/C or above including English Language and Mathematics.
About the role
As a Software Engineering Apprentice, you will develop technical knowledge, practical skills and professional behaviours to become a confident and capable engineer. Working as part of the Software Engineering team, you will support the delivery of software solutions, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget. Responsibilities include programming in industry standard languages such as C++ and Java, working in multi-disciplined agile environments, developing secure quality software solutions, and applying mathematics skills to model real-world solutions across industries such as aerospace and underwater systems.
Requirements
Permanent right to work in the UK and ability to successfully complete UK Government security checks including Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) screening and Security Clearance (SC). Typically must have lived in the UK continuously for the last five years.
Working week
Monday – Friday, 37 hours a week (8 hours Monday – Thursday, 5 hours Friday)
Skills
C++ programmingJava programmingAgile methodologiesRequirements managementSystem designSoftware testingProblem solvingProject managementCommunicationMathematics
Required qualifications
Essential
A Level · Any · Grade B
Essential
GCSE · English Language · Grade 4
Essential
GCSE · Mathematics · Grade 4
Desired
BTEC Extended Diploma · Any · Grade DDM
Desired
T Level · Any · Grade Merit
Training & development
3.5-year programme combining university study with practical workplace experience. First two years introduce a broad range of digital disciplines including data, computer security, software development, networks, programming and AI. Year three focuses on specialist Software Engineering pathway covering principles, methods and models of professional software engineering practice, plus a work-based Synoptic Project and End Point Assessment.
Additional training
Blended learning approach combining on campus teaching (around 22 days across the whole programme), distance learning (1 day per week during term time), online workshops/classes, and guided self-study. Job-specific training and development provided throughout apprenticeship.
Future prospects
Upon completion, achieve BSc in Digital and Technology Solutions and Level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions Degree Apprenticeship qualification, with permanent role secured from start of apprenticeship.
Company benefits
Competitive salary of £24,000 per annum, performance-related pay uplifts, holiday entitlement of 201 hours a year plus company day and bank holidays, contributory company pension, health care cash plan, hybrid/flexible working options, employee assistance programme, learning and development support, employee discounts and wellbeing initiatives, life cover, 80 hours volunteering per year (first two years).
Things to consider
Applicants who already hold a relevant degree (Software Engineering or Computer Science) are not eligible. Assessment centres for shortlisted candidates will be held between February - May 2027. Induction week takes place 6-10 September 2027. Roles may close earlier than advertised deadline if high number of applications received.
About Thales Group
Thales is a global technology leader with more than 83,000 employees on five continents. With over 7,500 people in the UK, operating across defence, space, aerospace, and digital security, providing technology and services to support security and stability.
Website
www.thalesgroup.comContact email
recruiting@jobalerts.thalesgroup.com