At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to develop innovative software for national security and defence projects.
- Company: Dynamic tech company focused on cutting-edge digital solutions.
- Benefits: Earn a competitive salary, enjoy 28 days holiday, and receive fully funded qualifications.
- Other info: Engage in exciting projects with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in software engineering while studying for a BSc degree.
- Qualifications: Five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above and strong IT skills required.
The predicted salary is between 19700 - 24000 £ per year.
Programme title: Digital and Technology Solutions Apprenticeship Software Engineering Pathway
Level: 6
Salary: 23776
Location: Bristol
Application closing date: 18th December 2025
Programme start date: September 2026
Our 5-year Digital and Technology Solutions Apprenticeship offers an exciting opportunity to kickstart your career in software engineering. Youll 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 youll 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.
Youll 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 youre helping to build an audio console or supporting software for a world‑class ship youll be involved in the full development lifecycle from concept through to testing.
This programme gives you the chance to learn about cyber security control systems software development electronics and more. Youll also have opportunities to develop skills and experience in Computer Aided Design (CAD) electrical and electronic design and managing databases.
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.
Your Education / Training
As part of your apprenticeship you will study for the BSc (Hons) Digital and Technology Solutions through the University of Exeter.
Youll complete your studies part-time over four years while gaining hands‑on experience in the years 1 and 2 youll build a strong foundation in digital years 3 and 4 youll specialise in Software Engineering. During your final year youll 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.
Future prospects
By the end of your apprenticeship youll 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 youll 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 youll 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 youll 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 Extended Diploma at MMM
- Other qualifications equivalent to 96 UCAS tariff points.
- Youll also need strong IT proficiency familiarity with software development tools and web technologies (such as HTML) and excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
- Many of our apprenticeship programmes are subject to Security Clearance and Trade Control restrictions which mean that your place of birth nationality citizenship or residency you hold or have held may impact which programmes you are eligible for. For this programme you must be able to achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance. Further details are available at United Kingdom Security Vetting : clearance levels ().
What youll get
We will provide you with a supportive and engaging environment where you can grow your career.
In addition you’ll benefit from :
- Fully funded qualification
- Personal development training and opportunities
- Minimum 28 days holiday allowance including bank holidays
- Competitive pension scheme
- Employee share scheme
- Flexible benefits including cycle to work scheme and employee shopping savings portal
Youll also have the chance to get involved in our STEM outreach activities and volunteering opportunities which our apprentices find incredibly rewarding.
Your career development
Its hard to beat the variety of fantastic opportunities and business experiences youll receive. You can expect real world encounters and exposure to exciting projects that will really help you navigate where you want to take your career.
Plus when you join us youll be automatically enrolled onto our Apprentice Development Programme. Through a series of digital and face to face sessions presented by wellbeing and performance experts and our external partners we will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to thrive and perform at your very best on your programme and beyond.
Application process and closing dates
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and the programme may close early if we receive a high volume of interest. To give yourself the best chance of being considered we strongly recommend submitting your application and completing any required online assessments as soon as possible.
Key Skills
- Organizational Management
- Presentation Skills
- Agile
- SAFe
- AWS
- Solution Architecture
- Conflict Management
- Data Management
- Scrum
- Team Management
- Pre-sales
- Management Consulting
Employment Type: Trainee
Experience: years
Vacancy: 1
Digital and Technology Solutions Apprenticeship Software Engineering Pathway in Bristol employer: Babcock International
Babcock International is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the Rosyth site in Scotland, where you can contribute to impactful construction and infrastructure projects. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, we provide ongoing training and development opportunities, alongside a collaborative culture that prioritises safety and compliance. Join us to be part of a team that values your contributions and supports your career advancement in the engineering field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Digital and Technology Solutions Apprenticeship Software Engineering Pathway in Bristol
✨Get Your Tech Game On
Diving into coding communities like GitHub or Stack Overflow is a must! Contribute to open-source projects or join local coding meetups in your area. This not only boosts your skills but also shows potential employers, like Babcock International, that you’re genuinely passionate about software development.
✨Connect with Apprenticeship Networks
Look for apprenticeship-focused platforms or community groups where you can connect with current apprentices and mentors. These networks can often provide insider tips on upcoming openings and help you gain a better idea of what companies like Babcock International look for in a candidate.
✨Show Off Your Projects
Build a portfolio that showcases any projects or code you've worked on, even if they're just personal projects or coursework. Employers love to see hands-on experience, so having a well-organised GitHub repository to share when you apply can set you apart from the crowd.
✨Leverage University Resources
If you’re still studying, make sure to use your university’s career services. They often have partnerships with companies like Babcock International and can help you find relevant apprenticeship opportunities or even connect you with alumni who’ve successfully landed similar roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Digital and Technology Solutions Apprenticeship Software Engineering Pathway in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Coding Skills:Don’t forget to highlight any coding projects or contributions you’ve made, whether they're personal, school-related, or open source. Including links to your GitHub or any code repositories can really showcase your hands-on experience and enthusiasm for software development.
Tailor Your CV for Tech:When preparing your CV, make sure you highlight relevant skills such as programming languages (like Python, Java, or JavaScript) and frameworks you’ve worked with. Also, be sure to include any academic accomplishments, courses, or certifications that relate to software engineering—these catch our eye!
Craft a Motivating Cover Letter:When applying for an apprenticeship, your motivation and eagerness to learn are super important. In your cover letter, share what excites you about software engineering and why you want to join Babcock International. Don’t hesitate to mention what you hope to gain from this apprenticeship experience.
Link to Your Portfolio:If you’ve got a portfolio that showcases your projects—be it apps, websites, or any software you've developed—make sure to include it in your application. This gives us a clear idea of your abilities and creativity. Plus, feel free to list your availability and any specific areas you want to explore during your apprenticeship with us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Babcock International
✨Show Off Your Coding Skills
During the interview for a software engineering apprenticeship at Babcock International, you'll likely face some technical questions or coding challenges. Brush up on your coding skills, and be prepared to explain your thought process as you solve problems. Practising with platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank could give you a leg up!
✨Demonstrate Your Curiosity
As an apprentice, they're looking for your potential and enthusiasm to learn. Be ready to discuss any projects you’ve worked on, whether they're school assignments or personal side projects. Show how you tackled challenges and what you learned from them; it’ll highlight your eagerness to grow in this field.
✨Understand the Tools of the Trade
Familiarise yourself with tools commonly used in software development, such as version control systems like Git, frameworks relevant to the role, or project management tools. Knowing your way around these tools will show that you’re not just a coding whiz but also ready to jump into real-world projects at Babcock International.
✨Prepare for Soft Skills Questions
While technical skills are vital, soft skills matter too, especially in a collaboration-heavy environment like software engineering. Be ready to share examples of how you've worked in teams, resolved conflicts, or adapted to feedback. They want to know you can fit into the Babcock International culture and work well with others!
