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- Tasks: Develop cutting-edge software for aerospace and defence systems while learning on the job.
- Company: Join Thales, a leader in advanced aerospace and security solutions.
- Benefits: Earn ÂŁ24,000, enjoy 201 days off, and have tuition fees covered.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in tech while gaining a recognised degree and qualifications.
- Qualifications: 112 UCAS points including Maths and a relevant STEM subject.
- Other info: Dynamic apprenticeship with excellent career growth and support for diverse applicants.
The predicted salary is between 8000 - 10000 ÂŁ per month.
Join Thales, an industry leader that designs and builds advanced aerospace, defence, security, and space solutions. Our work powers twoâthirds of all flights and entertains 50 million passengers each year. As an apprentice you will develop cuttingâedge software for aircraft and defence systems, progressing from learning to contributing to real projects.
Start Date: 07 September 2026
Salary: ÂŁ24,000 per annum
Employment type: Permanent
Location: Crawley, United Kingdom
Working Schedule: Monday â Friday, 37 hours a week (8 h MondayâThursday, 5 h Friday)
What the role has to offer:
- Earn while you learn
- Jobâspecific training experience
- Recognised qualifications
- Permanent role from day one
- Tuition fees for university or approved training providers fully covered
As a Software Engineering Apprentice you will support the team to deliver realâworld software solutions to deadlines and within budget, with opportunities to contribute across the entire development lifecycle.
Key responsibilities and learning opportunities:
- Programming in industryâstandard languages such as C++ and Java
- Working in a multiâdisciplined agile environment alongside experienced engineers
- Using business management tools for requirement and documentation management
- Learning new tools and infrastructure for the engineering environment
- Developing secure, quality software solutions that adhere to timescales and budgets
- Applying domain knowledge and mathematical skills to model and develop solutions for aerospace, underwater systems, and softwareâdefined radio and electronic counterâmeasure systems
- Developing creative and bespoke software solutions
- Building organisational skills with strong communication and relationshipâbuilding abilities
- Exploring digital technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics
Apprentice Programme:
You will enrol in the Level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions Degree Apprenticeship at Warwick University, following the Software Engineering pathway. Over four years you will combine university studies with practical application, working in our software function in Crawley. The programme follows a block release model, blending onâcampus delivery with remote learning. For most of the time you will work in the business 4 days a week and have 1 day per week dedicated to apprenticeship studies. Upon completion you will be employed as a software engineer within a Thales UK business, holding a BSc in Digital and Technology Solutions and a Level 6 apprenticeship qualification.
Requirements:
- 112 UCAS tariff points at A level (grades BBC) including a C or higher in Maths and at least one other relevant STEM subject (Engineering, IT, Computing, Web and Telecoms, Physics, Electronics)
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9â4 (AâC) including English and Maths
Benefits:
- 201 hours annual leave (plus company day and bank holidays)
- Company pension
- Health Care Cash Plan
- Life Insurance
- Discount portal
- Performanceârelated pay uplifts
- 80 hours volunteering (first two years)
Application deadline: Applications will close at 11.59 pm on Thursday 12 February 2026. We will contact shortlisted candidates by the end of February 2026. Roles may close earlier if a high number of applications is received.
Recruitment Process: Assessment centres for shortlisted candidates will be held between February and May 2026. Induction week for all graduates and apprentices will be from Monday 7 September to Friday 11 September 2026.
Security & Eligibility: All applicants must have the permanent right to work in the UK and will need to undergo Government security clearance at BPSS level and secure full Security Clearance (SC) in line with UKSV requirements before starting. SC clearance is a requirement; if you do not yet hold it you must obtain it prior to commencement.
Equal Opportunities: Thales is an equal opportunities employer. Diversity and inclusion are integral to the success of Thales.
Accessibility & Support: We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrierâfree recruitment process. Reasonable adjustments and support will be provided for neuroâdiverse applicants, those with a disability, or longâterm conditions. To request an adjustment or an alternative format, contact the Early Careers Team for apprentice roles.
Apply Now: Great journeys start here â apply now!
2026 Software Engineering Apprentice - Level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions Degree Apprenti[...] in Crawley employer: Thales
Contact Detail:
Thales Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice đ¤Ť
We think this is how you could land 2026 Software Engineering Apprentice - Level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions Degree Apprenti[...] in Crawley
â¨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Thales and understand their projects and values. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
â¨Tip Number 2
Practice your coding skills! Since you'll be working with languages like C++ and Java, brush up on your programming knowledge. Consider doing some mock coding challenges or pair programming sessions to get comfortable.
â¨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current apprentices or employees at Thales on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for the application process. Itâs all about making those connections!
â¨Tip Number 4
Donât forget to apply through our website! Itâs the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows youâre serious about joining the Thales family. So, what are you waiting for? Get that application in!
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Software Engineering Apprentice - Level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions Degree Apprenti[...] in Crawley
Some tips for your application đŤĄ
Show Your Passion for Software Engineering: Let us see your enthusiasm for software engineering! Share any personal projects or experiences that highlight your coding skills and interest in technology. This will help us understand why you're excited about this apprenticeship.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to match the job description. Highlight relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications that align with what we're looking for in a Software Engineering Apprentice. It shows us youâve done your homework!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website: Donât forget to apply through our website! Itâs the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, youâll find all the details you need about the role and the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thales
â¨Know Your Tech
Brush up on your programming skills, especially in C++ and Java. Be ready to discuss any projects you've worked on using these languages, as well as your understanding of software development processes.
â¨Understand the Company
Research Thales and its role in aerospace and defence. Familiarise yourself with their products and services, and think about how your skills can contribute to their mission of delivering advanced solutions.
â¨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to tackle some technical questions or scenarios during the interview. Think through how you would approach real-world problems, especially those related to software development and engineering.
â¨Communicate Effectively
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Strong communication is key in a multi-disciplined agile environment, so be ready to demonstrate your ability to collaborate and build relationships.
