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All careers

Technology

Software Developer

Design, build and maintain apps, websites and systems that people use every day.

Key skills

Problem-solvingLogicCollaborationCuriosity

Ways in

UniversityApprenticeshipStraight into workSelf-employed

Typical prerequisites

  • No fixed route — portfolio matters
  • Maths helps; Computing GCSE/A-level optional

Alternative routes

  • Digital degree apprenticeship
  • Bootcamp + portfolio
  • Data analyst

Route milestones

  1. 1

    Learn & build portfolio projects

    Around year 0–2

  2. 2

    Junior developer / apprenticeship

    Around year 1–3

  3. 3

    Mid-level developer

    Around year 3–6

  4. 4

    Senior / lead / founder

    Around year 6+

Progression: Junior → mid → senior → staff/lead or management; contracting and start-ups possible.

Indicative pay bands

Starting out£28,000 – £38,000
Experienced£50,000 – £75,000
Senior / top end£80,000 – £130,000

Indicative example estimates compiled October 2026 for planning conversations only. Pay varies by region, employer, sector and hours. Always verify with official sources such as the National Careers Service.

Verify on National Careers Service

Contribution & impact

Tools that save time, connect people and solve real problems at scale.