Our Level 5 Data Engineer apprenticeship develops strategic, business-minded engineers. Participants gain hands-on experience with data products, platforms, data pipelines, and AI-enabled engineering – aligning technical solutions with broader organisational goals.
View our full Data Engineer programme outline. Including:
Data Engineers play a vital role in designing, building, and maintaining the data products, platforms, and pipelines that power modern organisations. By transforming raw data into trusted, accessible information, they create the foundations for advanced analytics, AI adoption, automation, and data-driven decision-making across the business.
Designed around the modern Data Engineering lifecycle, our Data Engineering programme goes beyond traditional database and pipeline management. Learners develop practical skills in SQL from day one, alongside expertise in data architecture, governance, quality, cloud technologies, and modern data platforms.
Through hands-on workplace application, apprentices learn how to build scalable, secure, and sustainable data solutions that support operational performance, innovation, and long-term business growth.
View Full Programme Details
View our full Data Engineer programme outline. Including:
Modern organisations rely on trusted, accessible data to power analytics, AI, automation, and business decision-making. Data Engineers play a critical role throughout the Data Engineering lifecycle, designing and maintaining the products, platforms, and pipelines that transform raw data into valuable business assets.
Our Level 5 Data Engineer apprenticeship programme is designed for individuals ready to take on this responsibility – building, maintaining, and improving the data solutions that underpin modern organisations. It’s a perfect fit for those working in data, IT, software, analytics, or technical roles who want to develop into a more specialised Data Engineering position.
Participants will require a foundational understanding of coding and data concepts, such as experience with SQL, Python, databases, or cloud technologies, alongside the ambition to develop their technical expertise and deliver greater business impact through data.
As part of our Be-Spoke initiative, you can choose an Expert module designed to deepen your learner’s technical specialism.
Apprentices can further specialise through an optional Expert Module that prepares them for the Microsoft Fabric Data Engineer certification. This enables learners to build advanced capabilities in modern data engineering using Microsoft’s unified data platform.
By developing certified skills within your organisation, businesses can strengthen in-house data engineering expertise, improve data infrastructure, and embed best practices across data operations.
At Baltic, we believe AI isn’t optional – it’s an essential workplace skill. That’s why every apprentice, regardless of role or programme, completes embedded AI training as part of their apprenticeship.
Our AI training is designed to build practical AI literacy and advanced prompt engineering skills, empowering learners to use generative AI tools confidently, ethically, and effectively in real workplace scenarios. From day one, apprentices apply AI to everyday tasks, boosting efficiency, productivity, and decision-making across any function.
By the end of their apprenticeship programme, learners don’t just understand AI – they know how to use it responsibly to solve real business challenges, drive innovation, and add value. For employers, this means a future-ready workforce, and for learners, a competitive edge in any role.
There is a range of government funding and local authority grant schemes available, which are designed to help you train the next wave of talent or invest in your team’s professional development.
Large organisations with an annual salary bill over £3 million are required to contribute to the Apprenticeship Levy. The Apprenticeship Levy is a dedicated apprenticeship fund, which employers can use to cover the costs of apprenticeship training and assessment.
For SMEs & Microbusinesses that do not pay into the Apprenticeship Levy, the Government will fund 100% of apprenticeship training and assessment costs for apprentices aged 16 – 21 and 95% for apprentices aged 22 and over.
To enrich the programme further, our Expert Module enables learners to deepen their technical expertise through advanced, role-relevant training. This module prepares apprentices for the Microsoft Fabric Data Engineer certification, equipping them with the skills to design, build, and manage modern data solutions using Microsoft Fabric’s unified data platform.
This certification equips learners with the skills to design, implement, and manage data storage and processing solutions using Microsoft Fabric. Participants gain hands-on experience with tools such as OneLake, Lakehouses, Warehouses, Data Pipelines, and Notebooks – enabling them to deliver scalable, secure, and high-performance data solutions that support real-time analytics and evolving business needs.
Training is delivered entirely online through a blended learning model, combining self-led study with live, coach-led sessions.
Learners explore the foundations of modern data engineering by developing an understanding of how data products are designed, governed and protected. The course introduces key concepts in data architecture, governance frameworks, compliance requirements, data ownership, security controls and responsible data management.
This course focuses on the quality, reliability and trustworthiness of data products. Learners explore data quality frameworks, monitoring approaches, validation techniques and methods for identifying and resolving data-related issues.
Learners explore how data is stored, integrated and managed across modern data environments. The course covers relational databases, data warehouses, data lakes, lakehouse architectures, NoSQL technologies and integration approaches used to support scalable data solutions.
Learners explore how Artificial Intelligence can support modern Data Engineering activities while investigating emerging technologies and trends shaping the future of the profession. The course focuses on practical applications of AI to support productivity, analysis, documentation, troubleshooting and continuous improvement.
This course develops the core engineering skills required to build, maintain and improve data products and pipelines. Learners build on their SQL capability while exploring automation, testing, troubleshooting, maintainability and engineering best practice.
Learners explore how data products are deployed, monitored and supported within operational environments. The course introduces deployment approaches, resilience principles, incident management, operational support and service management practices.
The final course focuses on ensuring data products deliver measurable business value. Learners develop stakeholder engagement, communication and product-thinking skills while learning how to gather requirements, evaluate solutions and identify opportunities for improvement.
The course helps learners bridge the gap between technical implementation and organisational outcomes, ensuring data products continue to meet evolving business needs.
James Paget NHS Trust places a strong emphasis on the effective use of data to support high-quality patient care and operational excellence. Through Data apprenticeships, the Trust has:
SAVED £500 PER MONTH
Routine tasks like the weekly SUS data pull are now handled by apprentices. One apprentice saved the Trust £500 a month by taking ownership of a single reporting task.
MADE SMARTER DECISIONS
By streamlining data access and reporting, apprentices have improved clinical care, eased pressure on staff, and contributed to the NHS’s long-term digital transformation goals.
INCREASED OUTPUT
By automating reports, handling ad-hoc data requests, and supporting data cleansing, apprentices have boosted the Trust’s capacity without the need for additional senior hires.
Our Level 5 Data Engineer apprenticeship is uniquely designed to develop both technical expertise and strategic thinking. Apprentices are trained not only in the practical skills of designing, building, and maintaining data products, platforms, and pipelines, but also in how these solutions support wider business objectives.
Apprentices won’t just learn how to engineer data solutions – they’ll be trained to understand the why behind the work. By combining modern Data Engineering practices with stakeholder engagement, product thinking, and continuous improvement, they’ll develop the commercial awareness and communication skills needed to deliver meaningful value across the organisation.
Use structured databases (SQL) alongside modern data architectures, including Data Warehouses, Data Lakes, Lakehouses, Microsoft Fabric OneLake, and Azure Data Services to store, manage, and scale organisational data.
Build and orchestrate data pipelines using Microsoft Fabric Data Factory, Azure Data Factory, and Azure Databricks, alongside core languages like Python and SQL and frameworks such as Apache Spark.
Work with modern cloud data platforms including Microsoft Fabric and Azure to design scalable, secure, and high-performance data solutions that support analytics, AI, and business intelligence.
Apply secure data access and governance using Azure security controls, including role-based access control (RBAC) and encryption.
Create dashboards and reports using Power BI to transform data into actionable insights.
Use tools such as Git, VS Code, and Jupyter Notebooks to support development, collaboration, and version control.
Complete the form and a member of our team will be in touch in the next 48 hours.
At Baltic Apprenticeships, we believe apprenticeships are the most powerful tool for skills development. Since 2007, we’ve been dedicated to delivering high-quality, tech-driven training to aspiring professionals across England – and we were the first provider to go fully digital.
As an Ofsted Outstanding and award-winning training provider, we specialise in Data, IT, Digital Marketing, Software Development, and Sustainability programmes. Our innovative, fully online approach gives learners the flexibility to study from anywhere, while allowing employers to develop talent with minimal disruption.
We combine technology with a human touch – everything we do is built on a foundation of complete care. Through our pioneering Be-Spoke model, each programme includes core learning, industry-relevant certifications, and modules aligned to an organisation’s unique sector-specific needs.
Learn MoreOur Level 3 Data & Business Insights apprenticeship builds the skills needed to unlock data capabilities and spark digital transformation. By the end of this course, apprentices will have the confidence to make data-driven decisions.
Our Level 3 IT Support apprenticeship creates expert IT Technicians with exceptional problem-solving skills. Apprentices will learn to optimise systems, configure devices, and provide outstanding customer service.
Our Level 3 Multi-Channel Marketer apprenticeship empowers learners to create platform-specific strategies, campaigns, and content, designed to increase brand awareness and drive revenue.
Our Level 4 Sustainability for Business Impact apprenticeship is designed for Sustainability Managers and Business Leaders, providing an ROI-focused training solution to embed sustainable practices into operations that deliver immediate business impact.
Our Level 4 Data Analyst apprenticeship develops professionals who can turn organisational data into clear, actionable insight, empowering learners to move beyond reporting to support smarter, data-driven decisions.
Our Level 4 AI & Digital Transformation programme develops internal leaders who can embed data-driven decision-making, support technology adoption, and build confidence with automation and AI tools.
Our Level 4 Infrastructure and Security Engineer apprenticeship develops the skills to design, maintain, secure, and optimise modern network infrastructure across cloud, hybrid, and on-premise environments, helping organisations support resilient digital operations.
Our Level 4 Marketing Executive apprenticeship equips marketers with a deeper understanding of marketing approaches and strategy. We teach people how to plan and execute tactical and targeted marketing activities that lead to conversions.
Our Level 4 Software Developer apprenticeship is the solution for people looking for the next step in their software career. Building on existing knowledge, we teach advanced project management skills & development practices, creating future leaders.
Our Level 5 Data Engineer apprenticeship develops strategic, business-minded engineers. Participants gain hands-on experience with data products, platforms, data pipelines, and AI-enabled engineering – aligning technical solutions with broader organisational goals.
If you’re technically minded and ready to move beyond working with data to designing the products, platforms, and pipelines that power modern organisations, this programme is for you.
As a Data Engineer, you’ll play a vital role throughout the Data Engineering lifecycle -transforming raw data into trusted, accessible information that supports analytics, AI, automation, and business decision-making. Your work will help organisations unlock greater value from their data while improving operational performance and innovation.
Our Level 5 Data Engineer apprenticeship gives you the skills to design, build, maintain, and improve modern data solutions. You’ll develop expertise in SQL from day one, alongside modern data platforms, governance, quality assurance, AI-enabled engineering, and cloud technologies, preparing you for a successful career in Data Engineering.
This Level 5 programme is designed for those who are ready to shape how data is collected, managed, and used across an organisation. It’s not an entry-level programme, but a focused route for those ready to specialise and make a real impact through modern Data Engineering.
To be eligible, we require candidates to hold a minimum Grade B (or equivalent) in GCSE English and Maths, as these skills are essential for the analytical and technical demands of the programme.
Due to the technical depth of the curriculum, you’ll also need a foundational understanding of data fundamentals and familiarity with tools such as SQL, Python, databases, or cloud technologies.
As part of the programme, you have the opportunity to complete an optional Expert Module that prepares you for the Microsoft Fabric Data Engineer certification. This ensures your training aligns with the modern data platforms and tools used in today’s data engineering roles.
This certification helps you build advanced skills in designing, building, and managing data solutions using Microsoft Fabric’s unified data platform. Achieving an industry-recognised certification also strengthens your technical credibility and demonstrates your ability to work with modern data infrastructure.
Whether you’re building on existing knowledge or preparing for more advanced responsibilities, this certification supports your progression into more senior data engineering roles and helps you deliver greater impact within your organisation.
At Baltic, we believe AI isn’t optional – it’s an essential workplace skill. That’s why every apprentice, regardless of role or programme, completes embedded AI training as part of their apprenticeship.
Our AI training is designed to build practical AI literacy and advanced prompt engineering skills, empowering learners to use generative AI tools confidently, ethically, and effectively in real workplace scenarios. From day one, apprentices apply AI to everyday tasks, boosting efficiency, productivity, and decision-making across any function.
By the end of their apprenticeship programme, learners don’t just understand AI – they know how to use it responsibly to solve real business challenges, drive innovation, and add value. For employers, this means a future-ready workforce, and for learners, a competitive edge in any role.
To enrich the programme further, you have the opportunity to complete an optional Expert Module that prepares you for the Microsoft Fabric Data Engineer certification. This module helps you build advanced skills in designing and managing modern data solutions using Microsoft Fabric.
You will gain hands-on experience working with tools such as OneLake, Lakehouses, Warehouses, Data Pipelines, and Notebooks. By the end of the module, you will be able to design and manage scalable, secure data solutions that support real-time analytics and evolving business needs.
Training is delivered entirely online through a blended learning model, combining self-led study with live, coach-led sessions.
Learners explore the foundations of modern data engineering by developing an understanding of how data products are designed, governed and protected. The course introduces key concepts in data architecture, governance frameworks, compliance requirements, data ownership, security controls and responsible data management.
This course focuses on the quality, reliability and trustworthiness of data products. Learners explore data quality frameworks, monitoring approaches, validation techniques and methods for identifying and resolving data-related issues.
Learners explore how data is stored, integrated and managed across modern data environments. The course covers relational databases, data warehouses, data lakes, lakehouse architectures, NoSQL technologies and integration approaches used to support scalable data solutions.
Learners explore how Artificial Intelligence can support modern Data Engineering activities while investigating emerging technologies and trends shaping the future of the profession. The course focuses on practical applications of AI to support productivity, analysis, documentation, troubleshooting and continuous improvement.
This course develops the core engineering skills required to build, maintain and improve data products and pipelines. Learners build on their SQL capability while exploring automation, testing, troubleshooting, maintainability and engineering best practice.
Learners explore how data products are deployed, monitored and supported within operational environments. The course introduces deployment approaches, resilience principles, incident management, operational support and service management practices.
The final course focuses on ensuring data products deliver measurable business value. Learners develop stakeholder engagement, communication and product-thinking skills while learning how to gather requirements, evaluate solutions and identify opportunities for improvement.
The course helps learners bridge the gap between technical implementation and organisational outcomes, ensuring data products continue to meet evolving business needs.
Use structured databases (SQL) alongside modern data architectures, including Data Warehouses, Data Lakes, Lakehouses, Microsoft Fabric OneLake, and Azure Data Services to store, manage, and scale organisational data.
Build and orchestrate data pipelines using Microsoft Fabric Data Factory, Azure Data Factory, and Azure Databricks, alongside core languages like Python and SQL and frameworks such as Apache Spark.
Work with modern cloud data platforms including Microsoft Fabric and Azure to design scalable, secure, and high-performance data solutions that support analytics, AI, and business intelligence.
Apply secure data access and governance using Azure security controls, including role-based access control (RBAC) and encryption.
Create dashboards and reports using Power BI to transform data into actionable insights.
Use tools such as Git, VS Code, and Jupyter Notebooks to support development, collaboration, and version control.
Everything we do is built with our learners in mind. To ensure our learners receive the appropriate level of coaching and overall support, each learner has a designated coach that will support them throughout the entirety of their apprenticeship.
Our approach is designed to empower our learners to achieve their full potential, and we take great pride in offering personalised and comprehensive support. We understand that each individual has unique learning needs, goals, and challenges, and we strive to provide tailored support to help our apprentices succeed in their apprenticeship journey.
Working alongside our coaches, we have a dedicated Safeguarding Team. Their main responsibilities are to keep each of our learners safe and protect them from physical abuse, emotional abuse, domestic abuse, cyberbullying, radicalisation, among other safeguarding concerns, and provide physical and mental health support and advice.
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