Become a Software Tester

Software testing is a strong career choice and, as specialists in this area, TSG offer a selection of courses to grow your expertise.

Building a career in software testing

A career in software testing gives you an active role in improving software quality and helping teams make confident release decisions. Modern testers are involved throughout the development lifecycle, working to review requirements, design tests and check fixes. There are multiple roles available from entry-level positions such as junior software tester or test analyst, into more specialist or senior roles.

Is a career in software testing right for me?

If you’re considering a role in software testing, you should expect to work closely with developers, business analysts and product owners to understand where software currently meets expectations and where further improvements can be made. The role suits individuals who are curious and comfortable asking questions. You will need a mix of technical and people skills, ensuring you’re able to understand both the system behaviour and its impact on users.

Skills and qualities required

Curiosity and critical thinking
Attention to detail
Logical problem-solving
Clear communication
Understanding of testing fundamentals
Risk awareness
Collaboration across delivery teams
Willingness to keep learning

Key attributes required to be a software tester

Natural curiosity to explore user journeys and system behaviour
Strong attention to detail for identifying defects and inconsistencies
Confidence to challenge assumptions when they are not meeting requirements

A methodical approach to building test cases and recording results
A logical thinker who can break complex issues into clear, testable components
Skilled in communicating findings clearly to technical and non-technical colleagues

User-focused, able to consider how software performs in various scenarios
Adaptable to changing technologies and delivery environments
Committed to continuous learning as testing tools, methods and systems evolve

Becoming a software tester

A career in software testing can begin with roles such as junior software tester or QA tester, where the focus is often on building core knowledge. As your experience develops, the role can lead into more specialist or senior areas, including test automation, security testing, test management, or quality consultancy.

ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL)

The ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) v4.0 course gives learners a structured introduction to software testing and the core practices used in professional testing roles. The course follows the official ISTQB syllabus, giving learners a clear grounding in how software testing supports quality throughout the development lifecycle. It explains why testing is needed, how these activities fit into different delivery approaches and how testers contribute to better release decisions.

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Introduction to Test Automation

Understand what test automation is, when it’s appropriate and when it may not be the best approach. This Introduction to Test Automation course helps you think more critically about automation decisions, including how to approach tool selection, assess potential return on investment and understand the practical considerations involved in starting an automation project.

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ISTQB Certified Tester AI Testing (CT-AI)

This ISTQB accredited course is aimed at testers who want to understand the impact of artificial intelligence on software testing. You will cover areas including machine learning, bias, transparency and unpredictability, so you can understand how AI-systems behave and why they can be difficult to test.

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All software testing courses

Average salary for software testing professionals

The average salary for a software tester can span between £35,000 - £55,000 per year depending on the industry you’re working in and your experience level. Entry-level professionals may sit slightly below this, and senior positions have the potential to exceed these limits.

£52k

You can earn an average of £52,000 a year [Reed].

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How to develop your career in software development

Continuous professional development is essential for those looking to further their career in software development. As the tech landscape evolves, staying up to date with new programming languages, frameworks and development methodologies can help set you apart. Completing relevant certifications builds specialised skills and prepares you to take on greater responsibility, lead projects and contribute to strategic decisions.

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