Our Level 5 Data Engineer apprenticeship develops strategic, business-minded engineers. Participants gain hands-on experience with cloud infrastructure, automation, data pipelines, and GenAI – aligning work with broader organisational goals.
Download our full Data Engineer programme outline. Including:
Data Engineers play a vital role in shaping how data is collected, structured, and delivered — laying the groundwork for advanced analytics, AI integration, and data-driven decision-making across the business.
Designed to go beyond traditional data training, our programme empowers Engineers to drive strategic business outcomes, not just manage infrastructure. Through a blend of core engineering principles, cloud-native tools, and emerging AI capabilities, learners gain the skills to deliver timely, trusted data for real-time analytics, scalable insights, and cross-functional decision-making, supporting smarter operations and sustainable business growth.
With tailored training aligned to your chosen cloud platform and the opportunity for participants to gain an additional cloud certification, the programme ensures your learners are equipped with business-relevant skills that deliver immediate impact.
Download Programme Outline
Download our full Data Engineer programme outline. Including:
Having clean, well-structured data from the outset is essential, and Data Engineers play a critical role at the very start of the data lifecycle. They shape how data flows through a business, laying the foundations for accurate analysis, automation, and AI.
Our Level 5 Data Engineer apprenticeship programme is designed for individuals ready to take on this responsibility — building, maintaining, and optimising the systems that turn raw data into reliable business assets. It’s a perfect fit for those working in data, IT, software, or technical roles who want to step into a more specialised Engineering position.
Participants will require a foundational understanding of coding and data concepts, such as experience with SQL, Python, or cloud platforms, and the ambition to grow into a technical data role.
As part of our Be-Spoke initiative, you’ll select an Expert module that aligns with your organisation’s preferred cloud platform.
We ensure training is directly relevant to the cloud technologies your team uses day-to-day, allowing you to choose from training in Microsoft, Amazon, or Google – maximising the programme’s commercial and practical value.
These tailored modules also provide the opportunity for learners to gain industry-recognised certifications from leading global providers. This not only builds platform-specific expertise within your team but also enhances internal capability, boosts professional credibility, and embeds certified knowledge where it matters most.
At Baltic, we recognise that AI training is no longer optional — it’s essential. That’s why every apprentice completes a mandatory Introduction to AI course as part of their learning.
Our Data Engineer programme goes even further. It’s been built with AI at its core, with every module enhanced by AI tools and techniques. From automating workflows to optimising data pipelines, participants build practical confidence using AI to enhance their role.
This means they don’t just understand AI as a concept — they know how to use it across multiple platforms to solve problems, drive efficiency, and make a real impact in the workplace.
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 Modules empower learners with cloud capability, deepening their technical expertise and offering role-relevant training.
Whether your team operates with Microsoft, Amazon, or Google cloud platforms, these certifications ensure your apprentices are equipped to deliver immediate, practical value.
This certification equips learners with the skills to design, implement, and manage data storage and processing solutions using Microsoft Fabric’s unified data platform. Participants gain hands-on experience with tools such as OneLake, Lakehouses, Warehouses, Data Pipelines, and Notebooks — enabling the delivery of scalable, secure, and high-performance data solutions that support real-time analytics and evolving business needs.
Participants will learn to:
• Design and implement scalable data storage using OneLake, Lakehouses, and Warehouses
• Develop and manage pipelines using Dataflows, Notebooks, PySpark, T-SQL, and KQL
• Implement batch, incremental, and real-time processing with Eventstreams and Eventhouses
• Apply security and compliance controls, including access management, encryption, and data masking
This certification empowers learners to design and optimise scalable, cloud-based data solutions using key AWS tools. Through hands-on experience, apprentices gain the confidence to manage complex workflows and contribute to cloud transformation initiatives that unlock the full value of your data infrastructure.
Participants will learn to:
• Build and manage scalable data pipelines using AWS Glue, Redshift, S3, Lambda, and more
• Handle complex data ingestion, transformation, and delivery workflows
• Implement secure, high-performing architectures aligned with AWS best practices
• Support real-time and batch analytics to drive insight-led decision making
This certification from Google equips learners with the practical skills to deploy, manage, and secure Google Cloud infrastructure in real-world business settings. Apprentices gain the confidence to support production systems, optimise resources, and contribute to scalable, secure cloud solutions that deliver immediate value.
Participants will learn to:
• Deploy, configure, and monitor virtual machines, networks, and storage
• Automate routine tasks using command-line tools and cloud SDKs
• Optimise infrastructure for performance, scalability, and cost-efficiency
• Support the delivery of secure, production-ready cloud solutions
Training is delivered entirely online through a blended learning model, combining self-led study with live, coach-led sessions.
This introductory module introduces the programme structure, the role of a data engineer, and the importance of regulatory compliance and governance. Through interactive activities, learners explore key regulations like GDPR, foundational data governance principles, and best practices for ethically managing and safeguarding data.
This module explores core data engineering concepts, with a focus on designing and optimising ETL, ELT, batch, and streaming pipelines using tools like Azure and GCP. Apprentices gain hands-on experience building scalable, efficient data systems.
This module explores key data quality principles, focusing on issue detection, performance assessment, and assurance. Learners apply AI-driven cleaning, synthetic data, and case studies to ensure accurate, reliable data in complex systems.
We equip apprentices to assess, integrate, and maintain scalable data storage solutions. Through hands-on design tasks, they explore cloud, distributed, and legacy systems, creating secure, cost-effective architectures that meet user and compliance needs.
This module strengthens skills for managing data projects across teams, focusing on version control, governance, automation, and clear communication. Learners use Generative AI to prototype solutions and deliver insights in agile, user-focused settings.
We teach how to deploy data products across on-premises, cloud, and hybrid setups. Learners gain hands-on experience with CI/CD, scalability, security, and post-deployment monitoring to support continuous improvement and deliver reliable, user-ready solutions.
This module gives apprentices hands-on experience with designing and managing data solutions in Microsoft, Amazon, or Google. They build platform-specific skills in infrastructure, automation, and security while preparing for a recognised cloud-based certification.
This module covers core SQL for data management, focusing on complex queries, transformation, and optimisation. Learners build practical skills through hands-on labs and explore how Generative AI can enhance query writing, data quality, and performance.
This advanced module covers NoSQL technologies – document, key-value, column, and graph databases. Learners apply modelling and optimisation techniques, integrate with traditional systems, and use tools like Kafka, Spark, and Generative AI for schema design and hybrid architecture planning.
This module applies core apprenticeship skills in real-world scenarios, covering processing types, legacy integration, deployment, and recovery. Learners build operational resilience, prototype solutions, and document decisions using industry tools and reflective practices.
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 skills and strategic thinking. Apprentices are trained not only in the practical skills of data infrastructure — cloud environments, automation, and ETL — but also in how these tools drive broader business outcomes.
Apprentices won’t just learn how to build pipelines or manage infrastructure – they’ll be trained to understand the why behind the work. By aligning technical tasks with wider business objectives, they’ll develop the soft skills and commercial awareness needed to contribute meaningful value across the organisation.
Utilise structured (SQL) and unstructured (NoSQL) databases alongside scalable solutions like Azure Storage to manage diverse data formats efficiently.
Transform and orchestrate data using tools like Databricks, Stream Analytics, AWS Glue, Kinesis, GCP Pub/Sub, Cloud Composer, Cloud Data Fusion, and core languages like Python and SQL.
Leverage cloud ecosystems (Fabric, AWS, GCP) and automate infrastructure deployment with Terraform and Azure Resource Manager Templates.
Ensure secure, compliant data access through RBAC, IAM, Azure Policy, Purview, and KMS for encryption and identity management.
Turn raw data into insights using Power BI, Amazon QuickSight, Looker, and Data Studio for dashboards and reports.
Streamline development and deployment with Git, VS Code, Jupyter Notebooks, Kubernetes, and Azure Container Instances.
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 teaches people to convert organisational data into powerful insights and stories. Apprentices will learn to extract meaning from the data at their disposal, informing strategic business decisions.
Our Level 4 CompTIA Network Engineer apprenticeship bridges the gap between network support and network management. We ensure our learners can support advanced networks and implement best industry practices to keep systems optimised for peak performance.
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 cloud infrastructure, automation, data pipelines, and GenAI – aligning work with broader organisational goals.
If you’re technically minded and ready to move beyond working with data to designing how it flows, scales, and supports intelligent systems, this programme is for you.
As a Data Engineer, you’ll sit at the very start of the data pipeline — shaping how data is collected, structured, and delivered across the business. Your work will enable smarter decisions and faster processes by ensuring data is available, accurate, and ready for use across teams.
Our Level 5 Data Engineer apprenticeship gives you the skills to build modern data infrastructure from the ground up. You’ll learn how to design, automate, and optimise data pipelines using tools like Python and SQL, use generative AI to enhance your role, and gain hands-on experience across major cloud platforms.
This Level 5 programme is designed for those who are ready to shape how data flows and functions across a business. It’s not an entry-level programme, but a focused route for those ready to specialise and make a real impact through data infrastructure and engineering.
To be eligble, 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 like Python, SQL, or cloud platforms.
As part of our Be-Spoke initiative, your employer will select an Expert Module aligned to their preferred cloud platform — Microsoft, Amazon, or Google. This ensures your training is directly relevant to your working environment, focusing on the platforms, tools, and services you’ll engage with daily.
Our Expert Modules also provide a pathway to industry-recognised certifications from globally respected providers, such as the Microsoft Fabric Data Engineer, AWS Certified Data Engineer Associate, or Associate Cloud Engineer Certification. Industry-recognised certifications not only deepen your technical expertise but also strengthen your credibility within your organisation and the wider industry.
Whether you’re formalising existing skills or preparing for more advanced responsibilities, these certifications demonstrate your capability to operate at a professional standard, helping you progress into senior technical roles and lead confidently in cloud-first environments.
At Baltic, we recognise that AI training is no longer optional — it’s essential. That’s why every apprentice completes a mandatory Introduction to AI course as part of their learning.
Our Data Engineer programme goes even further. It’s been built with AI at its core, with every module enhanced by AI tools and techniques. From automating workflows to optimising data pipelines, you will build practical confidence using AI to enhance your role.
This means you won’t just understand AI as a concept — you will know how to use it across multiple platforms to solve problems, drive efficiency, and make a real impact in the workplace.
To enrich the programme further, our Expert Module empowers you with cloud capability, deepening your technical expertise and offering role-relevant training.
This certification equips you with the skills to design, implement, and manage data storage and processing solutions using Microsoft Fabric’s unified data platform. You’ll gain hands-on experience with tools like OneLake, Lakehouses, Warehouses, Data Pipelines, and Notebooks, enabling you to deliver scalable, secure, and high-performance data solutions that support real-time analytics and evolving business needs.
You will learn to:
• Design and implement scalable data storage using OneLake, Lakehouses, and Warehouses
• Develop and manage pipelines using Dataflows, Notebooks, PySpark, T-SQL, and KQL
• Implement batch, incremental, and real-time processing with Eventstreams and Eventhouses
• Apply security and compliance controls, including access management, encryption, and data masking
This certification empowers you to design and optimise scalable, cloud-based data solutions using key AWS tools. Through hands-on experience, you will gain the confidence to manage complex workflows and contribute to cloud transformation initiatives that unlock the full value of your data infrastructure.
You will learn to:
• Build and manage scalable data pipelines using AWS Glue, Redshift, S3, Lambda, and more
• Handle complex data ingestion, transformation, and delivery workflows
• Implement secure, high-performing architectures aligned with AWS best practices
• Support real-time and batch analytics to drive insight-led decision making
This certification from Google equips you with the practical skills to deploy, manage, and secure Google Cloud infrastructure in real-world business settings. You will gain the confidence to support production systems, optimise resources, and contribute to scalable, secure cloud solutions that deliver immediate value.
You will learn to:
• Deploy, configure, and monitor virtual machines, networks, and storage
• Automate routine tasks using command-line tools and cloud SDKs
• Optimise infrastructure for performance, scalability, and cost-efficiency
• Support the delivery of secure, production-ready cloud solutions
Training is delivered entirely online through a blended learning model, combining self-led study with live, coach-led sessions.
This introductory module introduces the programme structure, the role of a data engineer, and the importance of regulatory compliance and governance. Through interactive activities, you will explore key regulations like GDPR, foundational data governance principles, and best practices for ethically managing and safeguarding data.
This module explores core data engineering concepts, with a focus on designing and optimising ETL, ELT, batch, and streaming pipelines using tools like Azure, AWS, and GCP. You will gain hands-on experience building scalable, efficient data systems.
This module explores key data quality principles, focusing on issue detection, performance assessment, and assurance. You will apply AI-driven cleaning, synthetic data, and case studies to ensure accurate, reliable data in complex systems.
We equip apprentices to assess, integrate, and maintain scalable data storage solutions. Through hands-on design tasks, they explore cloud, distributed, and legacy systems, creating secure, cost-effective architectures that meet user and compliance needs.
This module strengthens skills for managing data projects across teams, focusing on version control, governance, automation, and clear communication. You will use Generative AI to prototype solutions and deliver insights in agile, user-focused settings.
We teach how to deploy data products across on-premises, cloud, and hybrid setups. You will gain hands-on experience with CI/CD, scalability, security, and post-deployment monitoring to support continuous improvement and deliver reliable, user-ready solutions.
This module gives you hands-on experience with designing and managing data solutions in Microsoft, Amazon, or Google. You will build platform-specific skills in infrastructure, automation, and security while preparing for a recognised cloud-based certification.
This module covers core SQL for data management, focusing on complex queries, transformation, and optimisation. You will build practical skills through hands-on labs and explore how Generative AI can enhance query writing, data quality, and performance.
This advanced module covers NoSQL technologies – document, key-value, column, and graph databases. You will apply modelling and optimisation techniques, integrate with traditional systems, and use tools like Kafka, Spark, and Generative AI for schema design and hybrid architecture planning.
This module applies core apprenticeship skills in real-world scenarios, covering processing types, legacy integration, deployment, and recovery. You will build operational resilience, prototype solutions, and document decisions using industry tools and reflective practices.
Utilise structured (SQL) and unstructured (NoSQL) databases alongside scalable solutions like Azure Storage to manage diverse data formats efficiently.
Transform and orchestrate data using tools like Azure Data Factory, Databricks, Stream Analytics, AWS Glue, Kinesis, GCP Pub/Sub, Cloud Composer, Cloud Data Fusion, and core languages like Python and SQL.
Leverage cloud ecosystems (Azure, AWS, GCP) and automate infrastructure deployment with Terraform and Azure Resource Manager Templates.
Ensure secure, compliant data access through RBAC, IAM, Azure Policy, Purview, and KMS for encryption and identity management.
Turn raw data into insights using Power BI, Amazon QuickSight, Looker, and Data Studio for dashboards and reports.
Streamline development and deployment with Git, VS Code, Jupyter Notebooks, Kubernetes, and Azure Container Instances.
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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