Digital accessibility specialist
Level 4 · HigherDigital 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
Digital accessibility specialists ensure that websites, apps, and digital services can be used by everyone, including people with disabilities. You will audit digital products, advise development teams, and advocate for inclusive design practices across the organisation. This role is increasingly important as the Public Sector Bodies Accessibility Regulations and WCAG standards are legally required across many organisations.
On the job
What you’ll learn
WCAG 2.1 and 2.2 accessibility guidelines and how to apply them
Assistive technologies such as screen readers, magnifiers, and switch access
How to conduct manual and automated accessibility audits
Accessible design principles for web content, documents, and apps
Relevant legislation including the Equality Act 2010 and accessibility regulations
Testing with disabled users and interpreting usability research
Writing clear accessibility statements and remediation reports
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Audit websites and apps against WCAG criteria and document issues
Use screen readers and other assistive tools to test digital products
Advise designers and developers on fixing accessibility barriers
Deliver training and awareness sessions to content and design teams
Review new design prototypes for accessibility before development begins
Maintain and update the organisation's accessibility statement
Support procurement decisions by assessing third-party tools for accessibility
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 4 (Higher) - roughly Foundation-degree level. Usually needs Level 3 (A-levels, a T-Level, or an Advanced apprenticeship) or relevant experience.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 5/6 apprenticeship or a more senior role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
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What it’s really like
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