Computing
Foundation Apprenticeship in Information Technology: Software Development (SCP)
Campus Sighthill Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 6
Study mode Part time
Start date
Aug 2026
Course enquiry form
Course overview
This course is specifically designed for senior phase school pupils while they are still in school.
There are more than 7,000 workplaces in Scotland’s IT and Telecoms industry, and this course aims to help you become part of this interesting, well-paid and ever-evolving workplace.
Software development (programming) is behind every app you use, every computer game you play, and every software package on your digital devices. It’s about databases, virtual reality, robotics, and much more. Where it goes next is up to you.
FA Software Development helps you discover what a career in software engineering, Web development or digital technologies is like and if it’s right for you, while you are still at school. You will try software development roles, shadow experienced developers, or do a special project. You will develop the practical skills and experience necessary to excel in the job.
What you will learn
In year one (S5), you will complete the following units at Edinburgh College:
- Computing Applications: Development
- Computing: Authoring a Website
- Software Design and Development
In year two (S6), you will have a mixture of College and workplace delivery, where you will develop work-ready skills, undertake a project for your employer and complete the following units as you work some classroom-based.
- Personal Effectiveness
- Health and Safety in IT
- Telecom Investigating
- Defining Customer Requirements for IT and Telecoms Systems
- Data Modelling 1
- Object-Oriented Computer Programming
Placement information
- In year two (S6), you will be partly at College and partly in the workplace, where you will develop work-ready skills.
Number of days per week
- Tuesday and Thursday afternoons
- Time: 1.30 PM to 4.30 PM
- This course requires homework, and you should expect to dedicate at least 3 hours per week to completing it.
Entry requirements
- National 5 Maths, English and science-related subjects (National 5 Applications to Mathematics is acceptable).
- You should be working towards achieving one or two Highers over S5 and S6, one of which ideally will be Computing.
- Consideration will still be given to all those who do not meet these exact qualifications.
- You need to complete an online screening to assess your current skills and experience.
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 5.5Progression and Articulation Routes
- NPA Software Development and Web
- NPA Software Development and Digital Design
If combined with other qualifications:
- HND Software Development
- HND Web Development
- HND Digital Design
- University entry
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Sighthill Campus | Part time | 17/08/26 |
