Who is the programme for?

We’re excited to offer the UK’s only Level 7 Game Programmer Apprenticeship, specially crafted for professionals already employed in the gaming industry. This advanced apprenticeship equips game programmers with the skills to create cutting-edge, technically robust gaming experiences across various platforms, from console and mobile devices to desktops, web, and beyond. With the choice to specialise in Game Software Programming or Game Technology Programming, apprentices will learn how to design, build, and implement innovative gaming software and technologies, taking their skills to a new level and contributing to the future of interactive entertainment.

The Level 7 Game Programmer Apprenticeship is designed to equip apprentices with the ability to create software solutions for high-performance, real-time gaming environments. As a core and options apprenticeship, apprentices will complete foundational programming skills and choose a specialisation track.

Programme Overview

Duration: To be confirmed
Apprenticeship Standard: Game programmer – Link to Standard
Location: Fully virtual classrooms

Key Responsibilities

As a game programmer apprentice, will include:

  • Programming Complex Systems: Design and implement game mechanics, asset pipelines, and custom tools for real-time environments.
  • Technical Collaboration: Work closely with designers, artists, audio engineers, and QA to bring creative visions to life through code.
  • Maintaining Technical Standards: Set and uphold coding standards, ensuring quality and performance across game systems.
  • Diagnosing & Troubleshooting: Resolve issues in large, interconnected systems, optimizing software architecture to adapt to game design changes.
  • Research & Development: Lead exploratory research into new technologies, identifying opportunities for advancement within the industry.

What certification will the apprentice get?

Upon completing the programme, apprentices will earn a Level 7 Game Programmer Apprenticeship Certificate, a unique qualification that positions them as highly skilled professionals in the game development industry. This certification demonstrates expertise in both game software and technology programming, a competitive edge in a growing field.

How does the funding work

Apprenticeships are funded through a levy scheme operated by HMRC which deducts 0.5% of annual payroll above £3 million. Employers can access this fund when they employ an approved Apprenticeship provider such as Cherith Simmons to deliver the programme.

Cherith Simmons can directly access the funding to pay for the apprentices’ training. Other schemes provide 95% funding for smaller organisations, which Cherith Simmons can access on your behalf.

Funding is currently worth £19,000 per apprentice making the training effectively free.

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