T Level in Software Development (Digital Production, Design and Development) Level 3


  • Start Date: 01/09/2025
  • Course is for: School Leaver
  • Course Length: 2 Years
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This course is designed to produce the next wave of software and web developers in the industry.

You’ll gain practical experience with programming concepts using Python, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, and SQL, while developing your computational thinking skills.

You’ll build a strong understanding of the software development lifecycle, web development, data handling, digital environments, and the business context of technology.

This course will give you the skills and knowledge needed to start a successful career in the digital industry.

  • Software development technician
  • Web development
  • Automated test development
  • Mobile app development

You’ll also gain practical experience with programming concepts using Python, further developing your computational thinking skills.

That’s not all – our T Level in Software Development will also provide you with a solid foundation in business context, including how businesses use a range of digital skills.

You’ll learn about digital concepts and environments, agile project management, system security, and investigate different testing methodologies.

Assessment

The core content is assessed through an examination and a practical employer-set project.

The occupational specialism is assessed through a project that is created in conjunction with digital employers.

As the course is a T Level, you’ll undertake an industry placement of at least 45 day putting into practice what you’ve learnt in the classroom.

Our Digital Technology curriculum is reviewed by a range of employers to ensure that you will develop the skills required to work in the industry.

These include:

  • Infinity27
  • Ryder Architecture
  • Karbon Homes
  • Layers Studio
  • Opencast
  • DWP Digital

After successfully completing this course, you could progress onto a university course:

  • Newcastle University – Offers a BEng and MEng in Software Engineering, with a strong focus on programming and software development.
  • Northumbria University – Offers a BSc (Hons) in Computer Science with Software Engineering, with a focus on practical software development and problem-solving.
  • University of Sunderland – Offers a BSc (Hons) in Computing (Software Engineering), with a focus on software development, programming languages, and databases.
Alternatively you could progress onto an apprenticeships
  • Level 3 Software Development Technician – This apprenticeship standard is ideal for individuals who wish to start a career in software engineering. It covers topics such as programming, software development, testing, and deployment.
  • Level 4 Software Developer – This apprenticeship standard is suitable for individuals who have some experience in software development and wish to advance their career. It covers topics such as advanced programming, software design, testing, and deployment.
  • Level 4 Software Tester – This apprenticeship standard is specifically designed for individuals who wish to pursue a career in software testing. It covers topics such as test planning, test execution, defect management, and test automation.
  • Level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions Professional (Software Engineering) – This apprenticeship standard is suitable for individuals who wish to develop their expertise in software engineering and related technologies. It covers topics such as software development, project management, and leadership.

5 GCSEs at grades 5-9 including English and maths

You’ll also have the opportunity to complete accredited Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) exams in the following subject areas: 

  • Software Development Fundamentals
  • Database Fundamentals
  • Introduction to Programming Using HTML and CSS
  • HTML5 Application Development Fundamentals
  • Introduction to Programming Using Python
  • Introduction to Programming Using Java

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