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- Tasks: Join DE&S to support the UK Armed Forces with hands-on digital and data projects.
- Company: Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) - a leader in defence technology.
- Benefits: Earn £25,200, enjoy 25 days holiday, and access flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while gaining a BSc in Digital Technology Solutions.
- Qualifications: GCSE English and Maths, plus relevant level 3 STEM qualifications required.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with diverse employee networks and professional training opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 21600 - 28800 £ per year.
Location: MOD Abbey Wood, Bristol, BS34 8JH (office attendance required)
Duration: Four years
Start Date: September 2026
Salary: £25,200 (with annual increments)
Entry Requirements: GCSE English and Maths and relevant level 3 STEM qualifications.
Working Pattern: Full-time
Overview
Join Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) to support the UK Armed Forces by delivering cutting‑edge equipment and technology. This four‑year programme offers hands‑on experience as you complete several work‑based training placements whilst completing the BSc in Digital Technology Solutions in preparation for Digital & Data roles within current and future defence programmes. You’ll work in a hugely collaborative environment to ensure that DE&S continues to deliver the very best equipment to the front line.
What You’ll Do
- Part time completion of your BSc with a local academic training provider.
- Learn about Information Technology (IT) & Digital Operations.
- Digitally & Data focused placements across delivery teams.
- Apply your apprenticeship learning on implementing and maintaining digital services and projects, contributing to critical defence digital capability delivery.
What We Offer
- Salary of £25,200 with annual increments.
- 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays and an extra privilege day).
- Employer pension contribution of 28.97%.
- Flexible working options and access to on‑site facilities.
- Professional training and funding for qualifications.
- Access to employee networks promoting diversity and inclusion.
- Huge range of discounts.
Eligibility
- UK residency for the last 5 years.
- Security Check (SC) clearance required.
- Right to work in the UK (DE&S does not sponsor visas).
- Must not hold existing higher-level qualifications in the same or a similar subject.
- Must no longer be in full-time education by the start of the scheme.
Minimum selection criteria
- GCSE English language and Maths at a minimum grade 4.
- Three full A Levels at grade C or above to include Maths and a Science, or 96 UCAS points from STEM subjects.
- Pass at online assessment stage.
- Final‑year students can apply with official predicted grades; all qualifications must be evidenced by end of August 2026. (Equivalent level qualifications to GCSEs in the required subject and grades will also be considered).
Application Process
- Apply Online (26 Jan – 16 Feb 2026) – Complete an online application form using the link in this advert. Complete all information accurately including how you meet our minimum selection criteria. Please allow sufficient time to submit your application before the deadline.
- Online Assessments (Feb 2026) – We’ll ask you to complete some interactive assessments. These should take around 30‑35 minutes. They will provide us with insight into your adaptability, how you interact and learn new skills, and how you will naturally act and think at work.
- Eligibility checks (March 2026) – We will review your application form to ensure you meet our minimum selection criteria and nationality requirements.
- Assessment Centre (April 2026) – Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an assessment centre at DE&S headquarters, MOD Abbey Wood, Bristol. There will be limited dates available. You’ll undertake an interview, presentation and a group activity. Attendance in person is required.
- Provisional Offer (May 2026) – We will offer based on order of merit to the number of roles available.
- Onboarding (May – Aug 2026) – All pre‑employment checks will take place to ensure you evidence our minimum selection and eligibility criteria to undertake a role within the MOD. If all are successful, we will provide a formal offer of employment.
- Induction (September 2026) – Subject to confirmation, this scheme is expected to start September 2026.
Diversity and Inclusion
As a Disability Confident level 3 leader, DE&S is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and offer reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities. The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. We run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria and offer them an interview or assessment centre opportunity. Have a question or request for a reasonable adjustment? Email us at deshr‑etcoe‑recruitment@mod.gov.uk.
Apply now to start your career and make a difference for the UK Armed Forces!
DE&S Digital and Data Software Degree Apprenticeship Scheme in Bristol employer: Defence Equipment & Support
Contact Detail:
Defence Equipment & Support Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land DE&S Digital and Data Software Degree Apprenticeship Scheme in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research DE&S and understand their mission and values. This will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to the UK Armed Forces.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for the online assessments by doing some mock tests. Familiarise yourself with the types of questions you might face, so you can approach them with confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Be yourself during the assessment centre! When you’re in the interview or group activities, let your personality shine through. DE&S is looking for candidates who fit into their collaborative environment, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Make sure you fill out the online application accurately and submit it before the deadline. We want to see how you meet the minimum selection criteria, so take your time to showcase your skills and qualifications.
We think you need these skills to ace DE&S Digital and Data Software Degree Apprenticeship Scheme in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get Your Details Right: Make sure you fill in all the information accurately on the application form. We want to see how you meet our minimum selection criteria, so don’t skip any details!
Show Off Your Skills: When you're writing your application, highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Think about how they relate to the Digital & Data roles we’re offering and let us know why you’d be a great fit!
Take Your Time: Don’t rush your application! Make sure you give yourself enough time to complete it before the deadline. A well-thought-out application can really make you stand out.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply through our website using the link in the advert. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and keep everything organised!
How to prepare for a job interview at Defence Equipment & Support
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the basics of Digital Technology Solutions and how they apply to defence. Brush up on your IT and digital operations knowledge, as well as any relevant projects or experiences you've had. This will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Before the interview, practice common interview questions related to teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and demonstrate your skills effectively.
✨Show Your Passion for Defence
Research DE&S and its mission to support the UK Armed Forces. Be prepared to discuss why you're interested in this apprenticeship and how you can contribute to their goals. Showing enthusiasm for the role and the organisation will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Dress the Part
Even though it's a digital role, first impressions matter! Dress smartly for your interview at the assessment centre. A professional appearance shows that you take the opportunity seriously and respect the interviewers' time.
