Building a career in software development from the ground up

As it’s National Apprenticeship Week, we’re going to be shining a light on life as an Apprentice Software Developer. Spoiler alert – there’s rarely a dull moment!  

This year’s National Apprenticeship Week is focusing on building the future and celebrating how apprenticeships have helped both employers and people of all backgrounds. We're big believers in apprenticeships giving people fantastic opportunities to gain future-ready skills and to lay the foundations for a rewarding career. 

Since 2018 we’ve worked with Bournemouth and Poole College to offer hands-on opportunities to Apprentices on their software development course. 

The Software Developer Technical Apprenticeship course offers budding programmers the opportunity to study the latest developments in the software industry, as well as working processes and practices over an 18-month period. Problem-solving skills, analytical thinking and having a keen interest in all things tech-related will set you in good stead. 

One of our first Apprentice Software Developers, Patrick, is still with us today and has grown beyond measure to become one of our brilliant Junior Software Developers. Three and a half years later, Patrick shares what he enjoyed the most about completing his Apprenticeship with Clever Software Group: 

“I really enjoyed being able to learn whilst also completing real work for clients. A standout part of my apprenticeship was getting to see the software that I had worked on being actively used. Learning new skills from more experienced developers was also an enjoyable and valuable part of my development to qualify as a Software Developer."

In October last year, we welcomed our latest Apprentice Charlie. In a few short months, Charlie has hit the ground running and proved to be a fantastic addition to our team, even recently being crowned as our Clever Clog of the Month. Here, Charlie shares his route to an apprenticeship and how his course is going so far. 

What made you apply for an apprenticeship?

I was looking for a new career as I'd previously worked as a theatre technician. As I enjoy software development, it felt like a natural progression. I wanted to make sure I would be fully qualified for the role whilst getting started and gaining hands-on experience.

What do you hope to get out of your apprenticeship?

My main aim at the moment is to get my qualification and become a Junior Software Developer. Looking ahead to the future, I’d love to start my own business.

What made you choose Clever Software Group?

When I researched local companies, Clever Software stood out as a great place to work. After meeting with the management team, I knew for sure that I wanted to complete my placement with the CSG team. 

What kind of work have you been involved in since joining?

I’m lucky to have worked independently on a few small-scale software developments as well as working alongside the software development team on a complex project management system. 

What skills have you developed so far?

So far, my web API development skills have advanced the most. I have gone from not making any API’s to being able to make one in thirty minutes, which I’m really proud of. I’ve also learned a lot of coding expertise from the senior software developers, who are full of brilliant knowledge and guidance.   

What advice would you give to someone looking for an apprenticeship in the software development industry?

You definitely need to be open to learning, really love technology and the software industry. Also, finding a company that will offer you lots of learning opportunities will make all the difference.
 

A Promising First Chapter!

In four short months, Charlie has impressed us all with getting stuck in, working hard, having a positive attitude and being super keen to learn the ropes! We’re excited to see where Charlie’s future software development career takes him, and we’re delighted to be part of his first chapter. 

If you’re interested in becoming an Apprentice Software Developer, take a read of some tips from our Company Director, Andrew.