Build Practical Software Development Skills

with a Fully Funded Skills Bootcamp

Next Cohort Starts

York & North Yorkshire :
August 2026

Programme Duration

10 Weeks
5 Days a Week
(Mon - Fri)

Learning Format

Instructor-led Training
(Hybrid- mostly online)

With the Support of

THIS SKILLS BOOTCAMP IS COMMISSIONED BY YORK AND NORTH YORKSHIRE COMBINED AUTHORITY USING GOVERNMENT FUNDING

About the Programme

Are you ready to build real software, solve real-world problems and launch your career in software development?

The Software Development Technician Skills Bootcamp is a fully funded programme designed to equip learners with the technical knowledge, practical coding skills and professional behaviours required to begin a career in modern software development. Aligned with the Skills England Occupational Standard OCC0128 – Software Development Technician (Level 3), the programme develops practical capability across the software development lifecycle, from learning Python programming fundamentals to building, testing and deploying modern web applications.

Unlike many programming courses that focus primarily on theory, this Skills Bootcamp takes a hands-on approach to learning. You’ll develop software using Python, build secure database-driven web applications with Django, create modern REST APIs using FastAPI, manage data with SQLite, collaborate using Git and GitHub, and deploy your applications to the cloud using PythonAnywhere. Every module is designed around practical coding exercises that reflect real workplace development practices.

Throughout the programme, you’ll gain experience using industry-recognised development tools including Visual Studio Code, Git, GitHub, Postman, StackBlitz and PythonAnywhere, alongside AI-assisted development tools such as ChatGPT, GitHub Copilot, Google Gemini, Cursor AI and Claude. You’ll learn how to use these technologies responsibly to improve coding productivity, debugging, documentation and software quality while following professional software engineering practices.

The programme culminates in a practical Capstone Project, where you’ll design, develop, test and deploy a complete Full Stack web application before presenting your work through a professional GitHub portfolio. By the end of the bootcamp, you’ll have a portfolio of projects that demonstrates your technical skills and helps showcase your capabilities to potential employers.

Alongside technical training, the programme embeds Professional Skills, Employability Skills, Safeguarding and Prevent, helping you develop the workplace behaviours, communication skills and professional confidence needed to succeed within modern software development teams.

Why Choose This AI Skills Bootcamp?

Learn by Building Real Software

Build Python applications, websites, REST APIs and a Full Stack project through hands-on coding

Master Modern Development Technologies

Gain practical experience with Python, Django, FastAPI, Git, GitHub, Postman and other industry tools

Build a Professional GitHub Portfolio

Create real coding projects and a Capstone Project to showcase your skills to employers

Develop AI-Assisted Coding Skills

Use ChatGPT, GitHub Copilot, Gemini, Cursor AI and Claude for coding, testing and debugging

How does it work?

  • Check your Eligibility

    To be eligible for the programme, you need to fulfil these requirements:
    • Be aged 19 or over
    • Have the legal right to live and work in the UK
    • Be interested in developing a career in technology, Business Analysis or digital transformation
    • Be available to attend the programme throughout its duration
    • Have access to a computer or laptop and a reliable internet connection for online learning
    • No previous programming or software development experience is required. The programme focuses on applying AI within business environments rather than developing AI systems from scratch.

  • Register for the Programme

  • We will reach out to you and explain the next steps over a mail or a call

What skills will you learn during the programme?

Weeks 1–3 | Python Programming, OOP & Database Fundamentals

Build a strong foundation in Python, progressing from core programming concepts to Object-Oriented Programming and SQLite databases. Explore REST APIs, JSON and AI-assisted coding through practical exercises.

Weeks 4–5 | Version Control, Agile, Testing & Software Quality

Learn how development teams use Git, GitHub and Agile practices to manage code and collaborate. Develop practical skills in software testing, debugging and quality assurance.

Weeks 6–7 | Django Web Development, Security & Deployment

Build secure, database-driven web applications using Django, including models, CRUD functionality, authentication and ORM. Gain experience in application testing, security and deployment.

Weeks 8–10 | FastAPI, AI-Assisted Development & Capstone Project

Develop and test RESTful APIs using FastAPI and apply your learning to a Full Stack Capstone Project. Build, test and deploy your solution while creating a professional GitHub portfolio.

FAQ

How much does this Skills Bootcamp cost?

The Software Development Technician Skills Bootcamp is fully funded for eligible learners through York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority. There is no cost to eligible individuals. Employers referring existing employees may be required to contribute towards the cost of training, depending on funding rules.

What is the Software Development Technician Skills Bootcamp?

The Software Development Technician Skills Bootcamp develops practical skills across the software development lifecycle, including Python, Django, FastAPI, databases, APIs, GitHub, testing and deployment. It is aligned with the Skills England Occupational Standard OCC0128 – Software Development Technician (Level 3).

Who can apply for this programme?

This programme is suitable for individuals looking to begin or progress a career in software development, web development or Full Stack development. It is ideal for career changers, aspiring software developers and anyone interested in developing practical coding skills using modern programming technologies.

Applicants must meet the programme eligibility requirements, including age, right to work in the UK and attendance commitments.

Do I need previous programming or coding experience?

No. Previous software development or programming experience is not required. The programme starts with Python programming fundamentals before progressing to web development, databases, APIs and software deployment. Learners should be comfortable using a computer and willing to participate in practical coding exercises throughout the programme. 

What programming languages and technologies will I learn?

Throughout the programme you’ll gain practical experience with Python, Django, FastAPI, SQLite, Git, GitHub, Visual Studio Code, Postman, StackBlitz and PythonAnywhere. You’ll also learn modern software engineering practices including Object-Oriented Programming, API development, testing, debugging, Agile working and cloud deployment. 

How is the Software Development Technician Skills Bootcamp delivered?

The programme is primarily delivered through instructor-led online learning and also includes in-person sessions. Learners must therefore be available to participate in both the scheduled online training and required face-to-face elements of the programme.

Is this programme suitable for beginners?

Yes. The programme has been designed for learners who are new to software development. You’ll begin with the fundamentals of Python programming before progressing through databases, version control, web development, API development, testing and deployment, giving you the knowledge and confidence to build Full Stack applications from the ground up. 

What career opportunities could this programme lead to?

The programme prepares learners for entry-level software development roles including Software Development Technician, Junior Python Developer, Junior Full Stack Developer, Junior Backend Developer, Junior Web Developer, Application Support Developer, Software Tester, Junior QA Tester, API Developer, Django Developer and Digital Solutions Developer. 

Which industries use these skills?

Software development skills are in demand across a wide range of industries including digital technology, public services, healthcare, education, financial services, manufacturing, agri-tech, creative industries and technology consultancies. Organisations across York and North Yorkshire continue to invest in software development and digital transformation, creating opportunities for skilled developers. 

What practical project will I complete?

Yes. Throughout the programme, you’ll develop practical coding projects and build a professional GitHub portfolio. You’ll also complete a Capstone Project where you’ll apply your learning to design, develop, test and deploy a Full Stack software solution.

Will I receive career support?

Yes. Alongside technical learning, the programme includes Professional Skills and Employability Skills designed to help you prepare for employment. You’ll also build a professional GitHub portfolio and complete a Capstone Project that can support your job applications and interviews. 

Why might my application be rejected?

Applications are assessed against the programme’s eligibility requirements and selection criteria. If your application is rejected, it may be because you do not currently meet one or more of the eligibility requirements, are unable to commit to the programme schedule, or have not achieved the required standard during the application process. 

Common reasons include: 

  • You do not meet the programme eligibility requirements. 
  • You do not have the legal right to live and work in the UK. 
  • You are unavailable to attend the full programme. 
  • You are outside the programme’s funded geographical area (where applicable). 
  • You did not achieve the required standard during the assessment process. 
Do I need to pay for any software, tools or platforms during the Skills Bootcamp?

No. You will not need to purchase any mandatory software licences or subscriptions to complete the programme. The Skills Bootcamp uses open-source or freely available technologies and free tiers of selected digital, cloud and AI platforms where appropriate. Paid plans may offer additional features, but they are not required to successfully complete the programme.

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