Application Developer Review
at IBM
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Information Technology, Software Engineering
London
Review Submitted: April 2026
Overall Rating
5 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
5/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
During my Level 4 Software Tester Apprenticeship at IBM, my role involved supporting the delivery of high-quality software for client projects through functional testing, test preparation, defect reporting, and evidence gathering. On a day-to-day basis, I worked with requirements, created and executed test cases, recorded test outcomes, raised and tracked defects, and communicated with developers, business analysts, and wider project stakeholders. The role gave me practical exposure to how testing supports successful delivery in a large professional technology environment.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I enjoyed the programme a great deal because it gave me a structured route into technology while allowing me to apply my learning directly within IBM and on real project work. The combination of workplace experience, apprenticeship learning, and support from colleagues helped me build confidence and develop a strong foundation in software testing. It was rewarding to see how the skills I developed contributed to software quality, client delivery, and my wider career progression within IBM.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I developed a wide range of new skills during my Level 4 Software Tester Apprenticeship at IBM. The programme helped me build a strong foundation in software testing, including test planning, test case design, functional testing, defect management, evidence gathering, and communicating test outcomes clearly.
Alongside testing, I also developed broader technology and consulting skills through my work at IBM. This included exposure to cloud technologies, AI, automation, agile delivery, stakeholder management, collaboration, and working effectively as part of a professional project team. Overall, the apprenticeship helped me become more confident, technically capable, and better prepared for future roles in technology and consulting.
Alongside testing, I also developed broader technology and consulting skills through my work at IBM. This included exposure to cloud technologies, AI, automation, agile delivery, stakeholder management, collaboration, and working effectively as part of a professional project team. Overall, the apprenticeship helped me become more confident, technically capable, and better prepared for future roles in technology and consulting.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The programme was well organised and gave me a clear structure for developing as a software tester while working at IBM. The combination of workplace experience, apprenticeship learning, regular reviews, and evidence-based assessment helped me understand what was expected and how to demonstrate my progress. I found the structure useful because it allowed me to build skills gradually while applying them in real client and project environments.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I received strong support from IBM throughout my apprenticeship. I was given opportunities to learn, develop, and apply my testing skills on real project work, while also receiving guidance from managers, colleagues, and wider project teams. IBM provided a professional environment where I could build confidence, improve my technical skills, and grow into a more capable technology professional.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I received good support from my training provider while working towards my Level 4 Software Tester qualification. The training helped me understand the apprenticeship requirements, prepare evidence, and develop the knowledge needed to complete the programme successfully. Regular guidance and feedback helped me stay on track and understand how to demonstrate my skills clearly.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
The Level 4 Software Tester qualification helped me perform better in my role at IBM by giving me a stronger understanding of testing principles, quality assurance, defect management, and structured ways of working. It helped me connect theory with real project delivery, which made me more confident when planning tests, recording evidence, communicating issues, and contributing to successful outcomes for clients.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Yes, IBM offers many opportunities to get involved beyond day-to-day project work, including learning events, professional development communities, networking sessions, volunteering opportunities, and internal technology communities. These activities helped me feel more connected to the wider organisation and gave me opportunities to develop my interests in areas such as cloud, AI, consulting, and software delivery.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend IBM to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend IBM because it is a great place to start and develop a career in technology. During my apprenticeship, I had the opportunity to work on real client projects, learn from experienced colleagues, and develop skills across software testing, consulting, cloud, AI, and professional delivery. IBM provided a supportive environment where I could grow, build confidence, and progress from an apprentice into a more capable technology professional.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to IBM?
My advice would be to show curiosity, willingness to learn, and a genuine interest in technology and problem-solving. IBM offers a wide range of opportunities, so it is worth being open-minded, getting involved in learning communities, and making the most of support from colleagues and managers. I would also recommend keeping track of your achievements and evidence from the start, as this helps both with the apprenticeship and with your wider career development.
