Favourites
Not a student?
Further info
Are you
a problem solver? Try our
new game
Are you a problem solver? Try our new game

Meet Amaara Naveed

Software tester

Amaara is a Software Tester at Lloyds Banking Group

What I do

I test the software behind our websites and apps, to make sure everything works properly before it goes live to customers. If something doesn’t work like it should do, I’ll mark that it has a ‘bug’ with the team, so the software engineers will fix it. We used to test everything manually, but now I also use automated testing tools and AI (artificial intelligence), to test things more quickly.

How I became a technician

At school my GCSE options included French, statistics, business and history. I thought I might go into medicine, but after a taster day at a sixth form, I realised science A-levels weren’t for me. That’s when I discovered T-levels. I chose to do a Digital Software Development T-level, and loved it. It was a big decision, many people around me assumed that T-levels were only for those who weren’t very academic, which isn’t true at all.

How I became a technician

My course included an eight-week placement at Lloyds Banking Group, where I did well and they offered me the chance to become an apprentice. I’m really glad I chose this path, I'm gaining practical experience, earning money and learning new skills all the time, without getting into student debt.

A typical day in my working life

I travel to work by tram and arrive at the office by 8:15am. The first hour is spent checking emails and catching up. At 9am, we have our daily team meeting. Everyone shares what they’re working on and raises any challenges. Afterwards, I check-in with our Quality Engineer Lead to find out what my tasks are.

A typical day in my working life

My tasks can include functional testing (checking features work as intended) or end-to-end testing (checking things from the user’s perspective). As an apprentice, some of my day might also be spent shadowing senior colleagues or attending training. It’s busy, varied and never boring!

The skills I use most

Communication and teamwork are essential, you must clearly explain issues and work closely with others. At first, I was quite shy about speaking in front of people, but this job has boosted my confidence massively. Attention to detail and problem-solving matters a lot too. When software engineers make changes, it’s my job to test every part thoroughly and check everything still works correctly. I’m also learning to use special automation software, to speed up testing and improve accuracy. My role is a good mix of thinking, communicating and technical skills.

I was quite shy about speaking in front of people, but this job has boosted my confidence massively.
Believe in yourself... You’ll find your way and you might even surprise yourself at how well things can turn out.

A little more about my everyday role

The most exciting thing I've achieved in my job

Recently, I won the British Computer Society Award for Digital T-Level Student of the Year, presented at Windsor Castle. Being shortlisted was already incredible, but winning was unbelievable! My mum came with me and seeing how proud she was made the day even more special. It’s definitely the most exciting achievement I’ve had in my career so far.

The best part of working in a team

My team has six software engineers, a product owner, a business analyst and four software testers (which includes me). We work closely together to spot problems and support each other. It’s great having a team with lots of different experience levels because there’s always someone you can learn from. Regular meetings help us feel connected as a team and motivate us, and we celebrate our achievements too. Knowing we’re all working towards the same goal makes work feel easier and more enjoyable.

My favourite piece of equipment

My favourite software is Copilot, which is like an AI agent that helps organise my workday. It helps me manage emails after time off, prioritise tasks, summarise meetings and highlight important updates. It helps me stay on top of things, which means I spend less time sorting through information and more time actually doing my job.

What I like to do in my spare time

I love sports, especially swimming and kickboxing. Kickboxing is a fantastic way to switch off after a busy day, I can exercise without thinking too much (as the instructor tells me what to do!). I also enjoy Zumba and I’m known as the baker in my family - making cheesecakes, cupcakes and my speciality tiramisu for family occasions.

The next steps in my career journey

After finishing my Level 4 apprenticeship, I’ll have the chance to progress onto a Level 6 degree apprenticeship, if I choose to. I might also consider moving sideways within Lloyds to try different roles, like becoming a business analyst. I’m excited about having lots of opportunities and options ahead of me.

The advice I’d give to someone younger

Believe in yourself. Choosing a path like a T-level or apprenticeship can be scary, especially if your friends are doing something else, but you should trust your instincts and not worry too much about what others will think. You’ll find your way and you might even surprise yourself at how well things can turn out.

Think you could be a Software Tester?

Discover what qualifications you’ll need, how much you can earn, and what the next steps are.

Discover other
technicians who
do this role

Software Tester

Jennifer Lloyd
Like the sound of
this role? Visit the
role detail page