Firebrand Training launch Microsoft Software Tester Apprenticeship with Testhouse

The demand for Software Testers is increasing, but businesses across the UK are failing to get the testing and DevOps skills they need because of a lack of qualified professionals.

In response to this demand, Testhouse, a Microsoft Gold ALM Partner, and Firebrand Training, leaders in accelerated learning, have launched the Microsoft Software Tester Apprenticeship.

The launch of this programme aligns with Microsoft’s National Empowerment activity, which sees over 4,500 young people start a Microsoft-backed Apprenticeship across over 2,500 Microsoft Partners and customers this year. This Apprenticeship will also be delivered in time for the imminent arrival of the Apprenticeship Levy.

The Microsoft Software Tester Apprenticeship is designed to bring new Software Testers and DevOps specialists into IT, at a time when these professionals are more essential than ever.

Built around the National Apprenticeship Standard for Software Testers, this Apprenticeship is designed by Firebrand — a Microsoft Solutions Partner — to align directly with job role demands of employers.

“We can’t wait to get new Software Testers and DevOps specialists into the industry to fill the digital skills gap and contribute to Microsoft’s target of 30,000 new Apprenticeships by 2020,” says Stefano Capaldo, Firebrand’s Managing Director.

“Firebrand are already receiving interest from employers for this new Apprenticeship. We’re excited to have our first Azure apprentices starting soon.”

Get Microsoft Software Testing skills in your organisation

As apprentices learn how to design and execute tests on business applications and services, students on this programme will develop into Software Testing and DevOps professionals.

The rapid increase in popularity for Microsoft Visual Studio 2015 has led to a lack of knowledge in the solution’s software testing tools. To meet this demand, apprentices will receive considerable training on this industry-standard platform.

Jim Cowdery, Head of Business Development at Testhouse, says, “We are very proud to work with both Firebrand and Microsoft to provide much-needed skills in the marketplace and offer businesses affordable testing solutions.”

Built by Testhouse and Firebrand, the programme also includes £10,000s worth of government-funded software testing training, including: