Qualifications improve your chances; they do not gate the job. Level 4 is the most recognised.
Level 4 most recognisedOpen entry
Your route in
Employers typically expect around L2
1
Qualifications employers recognise (Level 4)
Any of these strengthens your application.
Enter via a junior/trainee developer role or the Level 4 Software Developer apprenticeship (needs ~5 GCSEs); many hold a degree (L6), with L6/L7 digital and technology solutions degree apprenticeships for progression.