IT Degree Apprentice

Summary

£28,500 per annum (plus annual increases + London Weighting) | 30 days holiday (pro rata) | 10% in-store discount

Everyone at Lidl brings something different to the table — but we also have a whole lot in common. Our Degree Apprentices are passionate, ambitious, and love a challenge.

Just like you.

This isn’t just an apprenticeship, it’s a launchpad for your career in Tech. Our IT degree apprenticeship is designed to build your skills and knowledge from the ground up; you don’t need to be a coding prodigy or a hardware expert yet. We see your potential and will give you the tools to unleash it: Imagine yourself confidently troubleshooting critical system errors, translating business requirements into technical solutions or configuring secure networks.

We'll provide you with dedicated off-the-job training, delivered in partnership with QA. Within 41 months you’ll graduate with a full BSc (Hons) degree, zero tuition debt, and a highly specialised set of skills.

And don’t forget, you’ll earn while you learn and be well rewarded for your hard work. Your salary will grow with your experience, startingas a hands-on IT support and working your way through our core technology departments until you are a fully qualified IT Specialist on one of the pathways available: IT Consultancy, Software Engineering or Network Engineering.

What you'll do

Here’s a brief breakdown of your Lidl IT Degree Apprenticeship journey, as part of the Head Office IT team.

• Year 1: Foundation & Tech Support: Discover how tech powers a global retailer. You will undertake three 4-month rotations across core teams: Service & Support, Infrastructure, and Business Consulting, mentored by highly experienced specialists.

  • University Modules: Technology in the Organisational Context, Software Engineering Fundamentals, IT Project Management, Data Modelling etc.

• Year 2: Systems & Cloud Solutions: Step into your specialised pathway and fully integrate into your functional team.

  • University Modules: Business Systems & Processes, Cloud Solutions & Architecture, Professional Practice.

• Year 3: Advanced Technology & Security: Collaborate with specialists on Business solutions, infrastructure automation, and robust cyber-security measures keeping our supply chain seamless.

  • University Modules: Contemporary Issues in Digital Technology, Developing Technology Strategy, Major Project.

• Year 4 (5 months): End Point Assessment: Finalise your degree with a work-based project. With your EPA complete, you will be fully supported to step straight into a permanent, impactful IT role within Lidl.

  • University Assessments: Professional Discussion with an accredited external assessor and present your major project report.

Technologies and tools covered through the programme:

• Core Dev: Python, PyCharm, Git, VS Code, Docker

• Networking and cloud: Hyper-V, EVE-NG, Google Cloud Platform (GCP)

• Data Analytics: Managed SQL Server, SQL Management Studio, Looker Studio, Google Sheets

• Collaboration: Google Workspace.

Additional industry recognised certifications are available to take throughout the programme including Google Cloud Services (GCP), Salesforce or ServiceNow.

With the EPA completed and having proven yourself within our fast-paced IT ecosystem, you’ll be fully equipped to apply and step into a permanent, impactful technology role within Lidl

What you'll need

We hire for attitude and train for technical capability. To be eligible for the program, you must meet the following:

• Academic background: A minimum of 112 UCAS points from Level 3 qualifications in STEM subjects (e.g., A-Levels, BTEC Diplomas, or equivalent).

Grade 4 (C) or above in GCSE English and Maths (or equivalent Level 2 qualification).

• The right attitude: you’ll need to balance your university study, assignments, and full-time work. Good time-management and the resilience to thrive in a fast-paced environment will be essential.

• A demonstrable interest in technology, problem-solving, or coding (IT certifications are a bonus, but passion for solving complex puzzles and logic are essential).

• Eligibility & location:

  • To be legally entitled to work in the UK on a full-time, permanent basis.

  • Must have been living in the UK/ EEA for at least 3 years prior to the commencement of the apprenticeship.

  • To live (or relocate) within a one-hour commute of the Head Office, KT5 9NU.

Note: offer of employment will be conditional upon acceptance on programme by QA and Northumbria University.

Additional competencies assessed

• Analytical thinking: The ability to break down complex system problems logically and find root causes.

• Technical curiosity: A strong desire to learn current and emerging technologies, new programming languages, frameworks, and how technology can be applied to support the business. .

• Resilience & adaptability: Thriving in a fast-changing retail environment where tech priorities can shift rapidly.

• Collaboration & communication: The ability to work in teams and to explain technical issues clearly to non-technical store colleagues and stakeholders.

What you'll receive

• Competitive annual salary starting at £28,500 (plus London Weighting*)

• Salary increases as your technical skills progress

• A permanent contract from day one

• 30 days holiday (inclusive of bank holidays), rising to 35 days after 2 years of service

• 10% in-store Lidl discount

• Free on-site gym

• Dedicated 20% off-the-job learning per week

• Full sponsorship of your university tuition fees and extra professional IT certifications.

Please note your employment is conditional upon the Company's receipt of satisfactory references and if requested by the Company, a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check.

Assessment centres take place on the 4th and 5th August. Please ensure you are available to commute to our Head Office for one of these dates.

We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds. Join us to celebrate individuality and grow in a fair, respectful, and inclusive environment.

Data processing: If successful in the Lidl recruitment process for this position, Lidl GB will share your full name and email address with QA who will contact you to complete the apprenticeship application.

Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. This is to ensure our teams can manage application levels while maintaining a positive candidate experience. Once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

If you’re ready to get stuck in, want to get more out of your career and make a real difference, find your place at Lidl and apply now.

* non-contractual London Weighting allowance