Software Engineering Higher (Level 4) Apprenticeship in Reading

This 22-month apprenticeship blends hands-on mentorship, real-world projects and structured training delivered by Makers, a leading UK tech training provider. You will begin with an intensive 16-week bootcamp to build strong foundations in software development, followed by on-the-job learning at Visa where you will apply your skills to real systems. Throughout the programme you will gain experience across full-stack development, cloud infrastructure, CI/CD automation, monitoring and observability, microservices, databases, API development and agile delivery.

Specific assignments will depend upon your skillsets, interest, and team needs. By applying to this position, your application is automatically considered across multiple software development teams, so you could potentially work across a range of Visa products, including consumer payments, commercial payments and corporate IT. You’ll be supported throughout the programme with structured learning, regular check-ins and a community of fellow apprentices to help you succeed. On completion, you will achieve a nationally recognised Level 4 Software Developer qualification and be equipped to contribute to live engineering projects.

Qualifications

• We’re looking for entry-level candidates with the ambition to begin a career in technology that demonstrate:
• A genuine interest in software development, problem solving and building technical skills.
• Commitment to completing the 16-week Makers bootcamp and the Level 4 Software Engineering Apprenticeship, learning through real project work and agile collaboration.
• Enthusiasm for gaining experience across full-stack development, cloud infrastructure, API design, CI/CD automation, testing and monitoring.
• A collaborative approach and willingness to learn from peers and experienced engineers.
• Curiosity, proactivity and confidence in asking questions to grow technical understanding.

To be eligible to apply, you must:

• Be ready to start full-time work from September 2026
• Have the right to work in the UK
• Hold 7 GCSEs grade 9-4 (or equivalent), including English and Maths.
• Be studying towards or have a level 3 qualification (e.g. A-Levels or BTEC qualification) equivalent to 104 UCAS Points or above. This is equivalent to BCC for A-Levels or DMM for a BTEC. Please clearly state your grades/predicted grades on your CV.
• Not have completed a Level 6 (Degree) or higher-level qualification previously

Additional Information

• Deadline: 12th March 2026
• This apprenticeship is intended for individuals who want to learn and develop entry-level technical and professional skills in software engineering. If you’re currently pursuing or have completed a degree in a Software Engineering related field, we encourage you to browse our University Graduate and Internship opportunities.
• This is a hybrid position. Employees in hybrid roles are expected to work from the office 3 set days a week, Tuesday to Thursday.

Visa is an EEO Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. Visa will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with EEOC guidelines and applicable local law.