In 2026, we'll celebrate 10 years since launching our first Software Engineering Apprenticeship with Manchester Digital! Over the past decade, we've invested in the talent of tomorrow and watched people at the start of their coding careers grow into incredible engineers. We know the value of investing in future talent, so how better to celebrate than by scaling up? That's right - we're going bigger!

To support this growth, we'll launch our Software Engineering Apprentice Academy, a two-year programme with two intakes per year, starting in March and September.

We'll support apprentices throughout the two-year programme, starting with the development of core and technical skills, including communication, collaboration, programming fundamentals, and pair programming. Apprentices will progress to applying and stretching this learning in our tech incubator before moving into teams.

As an apprentice, you'll work towards a Level 4 Apprenticeship in Software Development, with opportunities at the end of the programme to gain a permanent Professional Software Developer role.

Here's what to expect:

Academy Foundation

You'll start with a two-week foundation, building a solid base of skills and knowledge to support your career at Autotrader. You'll explore Autotrader life, learn about the business, the industry, customers, and how we operate. You'll also invest in core skills like communication, collaboration, personal brand, problem-solving, planning, and organisation.

Apprenticeship Foundation

Next, you'll complete your Apprenticeship Foundation, delivered by Manchester Digital, to kick-start your Level 4 Software Developer Apprenticeship journey.

Tech Foundations

You'll build your Java coding fundamentals through a mix of bootcamps with Manchester Digital and time with our experienced engineers, developing the skills that underpin a successful career in Software Engineering.

Tech Incubator

Once your foundations are in place, you'll move into the Tech Incubator, working in small coding teams with tech mentors in a supported environment before joining larger teams.

Apply Foundations in Role

You'll then work in Product & Tech teams across the business, applying your skills to more complex products. You'll start building your apprenticeship portfolio and collaborate with your manager to identify a project for the practical assessment.

And there's more:

You'll join our Early Career Community, supported by a dedicated Early Careers Team. You'll have regular check-ins with qualified coaches, take part in academy projects and events, and meet regularly with your Skills Coach from Manchester Digital to ensure you're progressing toward assessment readiness.

We're a Real Living Wage employer, so you'll start on a salary of £24,570, with regular reviews throughout your apprenticeship. At the end of the two-year programme, you'll have opportunities to progress into Professional Software Developer roles.

Over the last five years, all Level 4 Software Developer apprentices have completed their apprenticeships, with many achieving distinction or merit grades. They've delivered industry talks, supported outreach events, been nominated for awards, and even featured in promotional films for apprenticeships.