Work+

Applicant
Employer

Software and App Developer (level 5, NWRC, NRC, SERC, SWC) Kairos

  • Employer Profile

    Kairos

  • Apprenticeship Type

    Software & Computing > Level 5-6

  • Positions

    3

  • Location

    Ormeau Baths (and Remote Working), 18 Ormeau Avenue, Belfast, BT2 8HS

  • Salary

    £21000

  • Start date

  • Location Type

    Home

Job Description


Who is Kairos? 

It is a platform for professional sports clubs to streamline planning and optimize performance.

As a tailored and dynamic sports performance platform Kairos optimises the performance of professional athletes by providing them with a structured tool to engineer and own their bespoke medical, athletic and skill requirements. These features are delivered simultaneously alongside real-time insights allowing the athlete to attain peak performance on game day.

Co-founded by Andrew Trimble an ex-professional rugby player with Ireland and Ulster, Kairos is used by clubs and National teams at the highest levels of world sport in Europe and the US including Manchester United and Liverpool FC as well as Premiership and Pro-14 rugby union teams such as Ulster and the Hurricanes in New Zealand. 

What you'll be doing

  • Helping to develop the Kairos platform, building out scheduling, communications and analytics functionality across web and mobile apps for some of the world's biggest sports clubs in Manchester United, Liverpool FC and the Springboks.

  • Learning new things - we use a raft of technologies at Kairos including; Ruby, JavaScript + React, React Native, Postgres, Kubernetes and a lot more. You won't be expected to take all of this on at one time instead the important thing is you're eager to learn the tools that will help you build whatever you're working on. Our senior engineers will be there to help and guide you along your way.

  • Engaging with our users, direct engagement between engineering and our end users is critical to the success of Kairos so you'll be engaging with professional athletes and coaches to gain insight into the challenges they face. So you’ll be taking part in customer product interviews along with our product team.

Somethings to know

  • You'll be provided with all the equipment you need including a Macbook Pro etc

  • The role is remote first (most of our staff work remotely from home) however we do have an office in Belfast which you're free to use as much as you want.

Person Specification


  • A real interest in application development.

  • A willingness to learn and an eagerness to build new things. At Kairos you'll be immersed in new technologies which can be daunting but we'll provide you with all the assistance you need to get up and running. All we ask is you come with a positive attitude.

  • Kairos is a collaboration between technology and elite sports, and having an eye for detail and a curious mind are great assets.

  • No previous experience with software development or sports is required, but an interest in both is definitely beneficial

Applicable courses

Whilst you are applying to an employer through Workplus you must apply directly to the training providers to secure your place on the apprenticeship course.

Software DevelopmentNorth West Regional College

Description

This programme enables employees to undertake a Level 5 Foundation Degree in Software Development validated by Ulster University whilst remaining in employment. The programme is delivered part time day release one day each week over 3 years. The final year incorporates a Work based Learning module worth 40 credits. Assessment is a combination of coursework and examinations.

Modules

  • Programming I

  • Programming II

  • Programming III

  • Software Testing

  • Mathematics for Software Development

  • Systems Analysis and Design

  • Database Systems

  • Computer and Network Architecture

  • Web Technologies

  • Data Science

  • Work based Learning

Award

Foundation Degree in Software Development

Validated By

Ulster University

Eligibility

18+ Fully Funded

Entry Criteria

UK Requirements

56 UCAS points, plus GCSE Maths Grade C minimum and GCSE English Grade C or Essential Skills Level 2 Communications

ROI Requirements

ILC - 56 UCAS points, plus OLC (Grade 04 or above) to include Maths and English

Duration

3

Start Date

Sunday 01 September 2024

End Date

Wednesday 01 September 2027

Progression Pathway

If pathways to HLA level 6 - 7 studies exist then participants may wish to consider continuing their progression as a Higher Level Apprentice. Successful completion of the Foundation Degree with appropriate grades enables progression to second year of BSc (Hons) Computing Science at Ulster University.

Software DevelopmentNorth West Regional College

Description

This programme enables employees to undertake a Level 5 Foundation Degree in Software Development validated by Ulster University whilst remaining in employment. The programme is delivered part time day release one day each week over 3 years. The final year incorporates a Work based Learning module worth 40 credits. Assessment is a combination of coursework and examinations.

Modules

Award

Foundation Degree

Validated By

Ulster University

Eligibility

18+ Fully Funded

Entry Criteria

UK Requirements

56 UCAS points, plus GCSE Maths Grade C minimum and GCSE English Grade C or Essential Skills Level 2 Communications

ROI Requirements

ILC - 56 UCAS points, plus OLC (Grade 04 or above) to include Maths and English

Duration

3

Start Date

Wednesday 04 September 2024

End Date

Saturday 26 June 2027

Progression Pathway

If pathways to HLA level 6 - 7 studies exist then participants may wish to consider continuing their progression as a Higher Level Apprentice. Successful completion of the Foundation Degree with appropriate grades enables progression to second year of BSc (Hons) Computing Science at Ulster University.

ComputingSouth Eastern Regional College

Description

You will complete a Foundation Degree in Computing along with work related qualifications over a three-year period.  The Foundation Degree in Computing aims to develop industry current skills to ensure that the future needs of the IT sector are fully met.  

This programme is based on a hybrid learning model with a focus on face-to-face delivery.

Modules

MANDATORY MODULES

Year 1:

  • Introduction to Programming

  • Computer Systems

  • Personal Qualities in the IT Industry

  • Introduction to Databases with SQL

Year 2:

  • Computational Mathematics

  • Network Technology

  • Object-oriented Programming

  • Mobile Application Development

Year 3:

  • User Centered Design

  • Web Technologies

  • Work-based learning (40 credits)

This course may grant you privileges as an Associate student of Ulster University and you may have access to a number of University services and facilities, including membership to the Ulster University sports centre and access to physical and online library materials.  To find out more visit UU Associate Student

Assessment:

  • Students are assessed using a range of different methods.  These include examinations, coursework, project based learning, presentations, practical assessments and class tests. This is dependent on the requirements of each module of study.  Both oral and written feedback will be provided during your course to help improve and monitor performance.

Award

Foundation Degree

Validated By

Ulster University

Eligibility

18+ Fully Funded

Entry Criteria

General Entry Requirements

The general entry requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed to apply for the programme.

Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application.

You are required to upload a copy of your qualification certificates to show how you meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to enrolment.

Applications will also require successful completion of the admissions process.

GCSE/ Level 2 Requirements

• GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND

• GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND

• 2 at GCSE level (grades A*-C*/9-4), or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

Course Entry Requirements

A minimum of 64 UCAS Tariff points including:

• GCE A level (A2): Typical grade profile CC

OR

• [RQF] Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in with overall award profile MPP

OR

• [RQF] Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma with overall award profile MM

OR

• Access to HE Diploma (NI): 45% overall and 45% in level 2 Access Mathematics.

OR

• An equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

Admissions

Successful completion of the Admissions Process.

Accreditation of Prior Learning

Alternatively, you can provide evidence of your ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, either through Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL). Further details on APL can be found in the HE admissions process section of our website and the HE Accreditation of Prior Learning SOP.

International Students

English Language Requirements International applicants, from Non-Native English speaking countries, must have evidence of English Language Level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:

• IELTS 6.0 (Academic) (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)

• PTE Academic 51 (minimum of 46 in each part)

  • Or equivalent UKVI-approved English Language Test

For further information please contact our International Department at international@serc.ac.uk

Duration

3

Start Date

Wednesday 11 September 2024

End Date

Sunday 27 June 2027

Progression Pathway

The course provides the opportunity to undertake employment within the computing industry whilst completing the Foundation Degree in Computing.  This will enable you to gain industry experience at the same time as completing your academic qualification.

You will learn transferrable skills such as communication, organisational skills, problem solving and critical thinking which will help you to apply to relevant jobs within the computing industry.  The programme is designed to facilitate your development of a range of graduate qualities that are highly valued in the workplace.  Throughout the course, industry standard software and equipment is utilised with a focus on the core industrial skills required for the computing industry.

Computing (Science in Computing)South West College

Description

This course is designed around the computing requirements of local industry. Learners will gain the knowledge, understanding and design skills to formulate solutions to computing problems and the practical skills to implement those solutions. Additionally, 'soft' skills will be developed in teamwork, communications, professional practice and time management.

Modules

  • Computer Technologies;

  • Computing Mathematics;

  • Programming in Python and Java;

  • Programming Mobile Applications for Android;

  • Database Systems Design and Application;

  • Software Systems;

  • Interactive Web Authoring;

  • Computer Networks and Work-based Learning.

The Work-based learning requires learners to complete an industrial placement of 400 hours.

Dungannon (Options Available)

  • Year 2 Semester 1 Network Database Management Systems or Software Testing and Administration

  • Year 2 Semester 2 Programming Mobile Devices or Emerging Technologies

Omagh (Compulsory Modules May Change Each Year)

  • Year 2 Semester 1 Software Testing and Administration

  • Year 2 Semester 2 Emerging Technologies

Enniskillen (Compulsory Modules May Change Each Year)

  • Year 2 Semester 1 Network Database Management Systems and

  • Year 2 Semester 2 Programming Mobile Applications 

Award

Foundation Degree

Validated By

Ulster University

Eligibility

18+ Fully Funded

Entry Criteria

A minimum of 64 (CC) UCAS tariff points for Full-time, 56 (CD) UCAS tariff points for part-time, with passes in 4 different subjects including grade C/4 or above for GCSE English and Maths. Entry is also subject to successful interview.

International students (for whom English is not their first language), must demonstrate their competence in written and spoken English at IELTS – Academic 6.0, with minimum 5.5 in all four elements of the test. Trinity ISE - Pass at Level 3 also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.

Where an applicant does not hold the formal academic requirements for entry to the programme, but can demonstrate relevant experiential learning across a range of industries, they may apply for admission through the College Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) process. In such cases, contact the Course Director for the programme who will advise further.

In the event of over-subscription entry criteria may be enhanced. Refer to general entry requirements.

To be eligible to commence study on the HLA pathway, applicants must have secured full-time paid employment in a computing-related position.

Duration

3

Start Date

Saturday 21 September 2024

End Date

Sunday 27 June 2027

Progression Pathway

The articulation routes for successful graduates from the South West College Foundation Degree in Science in Computing includes but depends on the overall grade achieved: ·

  • BSc Hons Computing Technologies at Ulster University, Belfast Campus (FT)

  • BSc Hons Computing Science at Ulster University, Belfast Campus (FT)

  • BSc Hons Computer Science at Ulster University, Derry-Londonderry Campus (FT & PT)

  • BEng Hons Software Engineering at Ulster University, Belfast Campus (FT)

  • BSc Hons Computing Systems at Ulster University, Belfast Campus (PT)

  • BSc Hons Information Technologies at Ulster University, Derry-Londonderry Campus (FT & PT)

  • BSc (Hons) Computing Science (Top-Up) (Validated by The Open University) at South West College.

ComputingNorthern Regional College

Description

A Higher Level Apprenticeship is a work-based programme which helps you to learn while you earn, and gain a recognised qualification. Working with your employer for four days per week, you attend college one day per week, and undertake a Foundation Degree in Computing, that is validated by Ulster University.

Across three years, you will undertake modules in programming, using databases, web and mobile app development, and much more. As well as developing your technical skills, other specialist modules underpin your professional development, giving you the personal skills that you need to succeed in the Computing industries.

This course is specifically aimed either at new employees who want to start work before undertaking a full-time degree course, or at existing IT employees whose roles are changing significantly. The qualification articulates into Ulster University's Bachelor of Science degrees in Computer Science and Software Engineering, for apprentices who wish to further progress their learning.

Given the demand for IT personnel across all sectors of the economy, Higher Level Apprenticeships provide an excellent pathway for people who want to gain a higher qualification, without running up the levels of debt associated with attending university full-time.

Modules

This course was revalidated by Ulster University in 2019.  Modules include:

Year 1

  • Programming Fundamentals (Python)

  • Web Development

  • Database Design and Development

  • Object-Oriented Programming (Java)

Year 2

  • Mathematics for Computing

  • Computer Technologies

  • Cyber Security

  • Event Driven Programming

Year 3

  • IOT Development

  • Cloud Computing

  • Work-Based Learning 

Special Features

To facilitate students learning in their own time, students are entitled to free Microsoft software for use at home via our Microsoft Imagine programme. This includes Software Development, Web Development, the latest Microsoft Operating Systems and Microsoft Office. HLA students will also have free access to LinkedIn Learning courses.

Additionally, students will also work towards Professional Qualifications from the Microsoft Office Specialist programme and optionally may undertake Microsoft Technology Associate Certification. 

Assessment Methods

The modules are assessed with a challenging blend of examinations and coursework. The course provides a fantastic opportunity to enter the exciting and well-paid IT industry, both locally and worldwide. 

Many assessments in the course are structured on real-life industry scenarios that students will face in their future careers. There are opportunities to meet software professionals, regular industrial visits and guest speakers. An additional module to enhance your employability is also be included as part of the programme. This programme of study is likely to include enrichment components which are aimed at enhancing your employability.

Course Update

Please note from September 2025, all Ballymena courses are planned to move to the new Ballymena campus at Farm Lodge.

Award

Foundation Degree

Validated By

Ulster University

Eligibility

18+ Fully Funded

Entry Criteria

Candidates must:

  • Be at least 18 years on or before 1 July in the year you start your course and must satisfy the general entry requirements. 

  • Achieved GCSE Maths grade C or above, plus English grade C or above (or Essential Skills in English at Level 2), plus Level 3 qualifications that are equivalent to 56 UCAS points or above.

  • Be a new employee in, or about to take up a permanent remunerative employment offer, or an existing employee moving to a new job role that requires a substantial amount of learning and skills development commensurate to the apprenticeship pathway. An exception may be made if an individual is already on an apprenticeship pathway at a lower level, with the HLA providing a progression route without the need to move to a new job role. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure this criteria is met.

  • Be employed by a company with a permanent base in Northern Ireland, have a contract of employment in place, be contracted to work a minimum of 21 hours per week (which includes day release/off-the-job directed training) with one employer, and in receipt of the appropriate wage.

  • Have achieved all necessary entry qualifications determined by the relevant sector.

  • Pass any entry tests specified by the relevant sector.

  • Be the minimum school leaving age in Northern Ireland.
    NOTE: you may start your employment up to a maximum of 6 months prior to the commencement of your off-the-job training.  The College will require a copy of your contract of employment and a wage slip to provide evidence that you are employed.

Third country nationals, including European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss Nationals and their family members, are eligible to undertake a HLA provided they have a right to live and work in the UK.  See HLA page for further details.

Where mature students wish to have prior education and/or experience taken into account, in lieu of meeting the full course entry requirements, they should contact the relevant Course Director or Admissions by 12th August, as an application deadline will apply.  It is at the College's discretion to consider APEL enquiries after the dates stated.

Duration

3

Start Date

Thursday 12 September 2024

End Date

Sunday 27 June 2027

Progression Pathway

Upon successful completion of the Higher Level Apprenticeship, you may be able to continue your studies by working towards a BSc Degree in Computer Science and Software Engineering or progress into more senior roles with your employer.

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Applications open until 26th August

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