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Applications open: TBC
What is the DE&S Digital & Data Apprenticeship?
Be at the forefront of the most critical and ever-evolving parts of the UK’s Armed Forces with our Digital and Data Degree Apprenticeship. Through practical and academic training, you’ll work towards a BSc Degree in Digital and Technology Solutions. Throughout the apprenticeship, you’ll complete placements to apply your academic learning in a fast paced and evolving environment in our Data and Digital Profession – providing you with a highly sought-after set of skills.
What you’ll need
To apply for this scheme, you’ll need:
- five GCSEs at grade 4-9 (C to A*) including English Language, Maths and Science
and
- three full A Levels at a minimum of grade C to include Maths, Science, plus one other (excluding general studies)
or
- a BTEC Extended Diploma in Computer Science, or Computing, at triple merit level
or
- a T-Level in Digital Production Design and Development, Digital Business Services, or Digital Support Services, all at merit level
or
- a minimum of 96 UCAS points in relevant Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) subjects
Please read our CV guidance before applying for this apprenticeship – Apprenticeship and Graduate Scheme CV Guidance.
What you’ll do
During the first year of your apprenticeship, you’ll start your BSc Degree in Digital and Technology Solutions at a University College on day release. The first year of your academic study provides a solid foundation in: Software Development, Business Security, Database Development & Professional Practice.
You’ll also get hands-on experience through work-based placements within NADG and other defence and military sites. The placements will provide you with much of the experience you’ll need to take on a role at the end of your apprenticeship, as well as evidence for your degree.
In Years 2 & 3, you’ll continue with your part-time degree in Digital Technology Solutions and follow the specialist Software Engineering pathway. Here you will support the design, development and maintenance of digital solutions that improve business operations and user experiences across the organisation. Working alongside experienced software developers, you will gain hands-on experience in coding, testing, automation, agile delivery and modern software engineering practices while contributing to real projects. This provides an opportunity to build technical skills, develop professional networks and apply innovative digital technologies to solve complex business challenges in a defence environment.
In your final year you will move into your final placement and complete an End Point Assessment with your academic learning provider to review and assess everything you have learnt over the past 4 years. On successful completion of your degree apprenticeship you will re-grade into a Digital and Data role within the organisation.
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What our learners say about working for DE&S
Charlotte, Engineering Apprentice
Developing tomorrow’s talent, today.
Course frequently asked questions
Yes. Should you require support with the application process you can contact our Entry Talent team at deshr-etcoe-recruitment@mod.gov.uk
DE&S is currently operating a Smarter Working Policy, where hybrid working may be available depending on your placement/project.
However, we cannot specifically advise in advance of you joining the organisation. It could mean being situated in office three times a week, or twice a month. We strongly encourage face-to-face collaboration to network with your peers and gain further experience.
You will be able to discuss your daily working hours with your Delivery Manager on starting.
Unfortunately, we are not able to offer a place to those who do not meet the entry requirements for the scheme.
Please contact our Entry Talent team at deshr-etcoe-recruitment@mod.gov.uk