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 has been developed in collaboration with industry experts to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the world of work.

Over the course of two years, you’ll engage in a mix of classroom learning and hands-on experience through an industry placement of at least 45 days.

This invaluable opportunity will provide you with the transferable skills needed to stand out to potential employers, as well as prepare you for further study or higher apprenticeships.

During the programme, you’ll dive into concepts, theories and principles relevant to the skills needed in roles such as:

  • 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.

Accreditation

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

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.

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

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.

School Leaver Course Guide 2025/2026

View or download our course guide for 16-18 year olds.

Gateshead College School Leavers guide for 2025 - 2026