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Highest Paying IT Jobs in the UK 2025 | Top 10 Careers
15/09/2025
How to Start Your IT Career in the UK as a Fresher
All in all, beginning an IT path of career in the UK can be both thrilling yet challenging, particularly for freshers who are entering a tough job market. Since the technology industry is advancing faster than ever, companies in every industry are looking for IT professionals to help with the digital transformation initiatives. This is a great time to be a graduate with technical ability whether leveraged through a computer science degree, a coding bootcamp, or self-learning as a programmer, the UK has plenty of opportunities, if you follow the right path.
This guide will take you through key steps to securing your first job in IT in the UK from developing in-demand skills to optimizing your CV & job hunt.
Reasons to Consider an IT Career in the UK:
High demand: The UK tech industry is growing at 2.5x the rate of the economy.
High starting salaries: Entry level IT jobs start at around £25,000–£30,000 and have the potential to grow quickly.
Variety of roles: There are jobs in software development, data analysis, cloud computing, cybersecurity, etc.
Career progression: IT is one of the few professions where you can go from a fresher to a senior role in 3–5 years.
Step 1: Develop Marketable Skills
In addition to degrees, employers look for practical skills. As a beginner, you need a set of foundational IT skills plus one area of specialization.
Programming Languages: Python, Java, C, or JavaScript.
Databases: MySQL, MongoDB, PostgreSQL.
Cloud Services: AWS, Azure, Google Cloud.
Basics of Cybersecurity: Networking, risk management, compliance.
Soft Skills: Problem-solving, teamwork, flexibility.
Tip: If you have come from a non-computer science background, you might want to think about doing a coding bootcamp or online certifications (for example, AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, CompTIA Security+, Microsoft Azure Fundamentals).
Step 2: Write a Winning CV
Your CV is the first opportunity you have to make a good impression on recruiters. Your CV should be short, skills-based, and achievement-orientated.
List IT Projects: List academic projects, internships, hackathons, or personal coding projects (e.g., a mobile app or website you built).
Use Keywords: Modify CVs to job descriptions when possible (e.g., "python developer", "cloud computing", "data analysis")
Include Certifications: Even entry-level certifications will enhance credibility.
Be Concise: 1-2 pages maximum.
Bonus: Build a GitHub portfolio or a personal website to display your projects. Recruiters value proof of skills more than just theory.
Step 3: Apply Smartly
You do not have to apply everywhere: focus on which platforms and roles to use.
Niche IT Job Boards: ITJobBoard.co.uk, CWJobs, Technojobs.
General Job Boards: Indeed, Reed, TotalJobs.
LinkedIn Jobs: Use your networking to connect with recruiters.
Graduate Schemes: Many companies in the UK provide graduate schemes for IT talent, such as Accenture, Deloitte, Capgemini.
Pro Tip: Apply for entry-level titles such as Junior Developer, Graduate IT Analyst, IT Support Engineer, Junior Data Analyst as a way to be considered for a role rather than applying directly for a mid-level position.
Step 4: Continue Learn & Upskill
IT is ever-changing and fast-paced---the skills that are valuable today may become obsolete in two years. As a fresher, you need to have a mindset geared towards continuous learning.
Keep track of technology trends in the UK (e.g. AI, cybersecurity, fintech).
Take MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) courses (e.g. Coursera, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning).
Engage in hackathons & contribute to open-source projects.
Become a member of industry professional bodies, such as BCS (British Computer Society), to start growing your network of tech professionals.
Step 5: Prepare for Interviews
Employers assess candidates' technical skills and behavioral skills.
Technical Round: be prepared for coding tests, SQL (Structured Query Language) queries, and logic/algorithmic tests.
HR Round: Questions will pertain to working in a team, career aspirations, and/or adaptability, for example.
Case Studies: Scenario-based questions (e.g. what would you do if a server crashed).
Redo mock interviews and use coding challenge websites/applications (e.g. HackerRank, LeetCode).
Closing Thoughts
It takes time to break into IT as a fresher in the UK. You need to show patience and stamina, employed with the best strategy for you. Focusing on skills, developing your CV, applying directly for the roles you want, and continuous learning. It doesn't matter if you start at IT support or an internship you may find in 6 months after gaining experience on the role you won, it will be a developer, analyst, or cloud role.
With the right preparation, your first IT job in the UK could lead you to a fulfilling international career in IT.
FAQs About Entry-Level IT Jobs in the UK
Q1. What are the best entry-level IT jobs in the UK for freshers?
Some of the best entry-level IT jobs in the UK include Junior Software Developer, IT Support Engineer, Graduate Data Analyst, Junior QA Tester, and Technical Support Specialist. These roles allow freshers to build practical skills and create a strong foundation for future career growth.
Q2. Do I need a degree to start an IT career in the UK?
While many employers prefer candidates with a degree in Computer Science or IT, it is not always mandatory. Freshers can enter IT careers through coding bootcamps, online certifications, internships, or self-taught projects showcased in a strong portfolio.
Q3. How much does a fresher IT job pay in the UK?
On average, fresher IT jobs in the UK pay between £25,000 and £30,000 per year. Salaries vary depending on role, specialization, and location—major cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham often offer higher starting salaries.
Q4. Which skills should freshers focus on to get IT jobs in the UK?
Freshers should strengthen their knowledge in programming languages (Python, Java, C++), databases (MySQL, MongoDB), cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), and cybersecurity basics. Employers also value problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills.
Q5. How can freshers improve their chances of getting hired in IT?
Freshers can boost employability by creating a strong CV, showcasing coding projects on GitHub, earning industry certifications, networking on LinkedIn, and applying through niche job portals such as ITJobBoard.co.uk, CWJobs, and Technojobs.
