Entry Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this apprenticeship.

• Previous knowledge of accounting or a Level 1 Bookkeeping qualification would be advantageous but not essential.
• Apprentices will need to be employed in a relevant finance, bookkeeping or accounting role.  

Course Structure

This qualification will prepare apprentices for junior and entry level accounting roles. It delivers a solid foundation in finance administration - covering areas such as double entry bookkeeping, basic costing principles and using accounting software.

This apprenticeship standard is at Level 2. The structure allows students to achieve the AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) Foundation Certificate in Accounting as their on-programme learning. This internationally recognised AAT qualification enables those working in accounting or those looking to pursue accountancy as a career to gain knowledge, practical experience and the all-important certification often sought by employers.

Units of study

The Level 2 apprenticeship covers a range of key areas, including: 

• Introduction to Bookkeeping
• Principles of Bookkeeping
• Principles of Costing
• The Business Environment 

You will also develop business communications and lifelong learning skills, applying what you learn on the course to the wider industry context.

Assessment & Feedback

Study Method – Online and Virtual Classoom

We have partnered with Mindful Education  to deliver this apprenticeship through our Online and Virtual Classroom model. Apprentices study online materials during allotted time at work, and also attend regular virtual sessions with a college tutor.

Online lessons can be accessed at any time, using a mobile, tablet or desktop - meaning apprentices can fit their study around work commitments, minimising disruption in the workplace. Each lesson lasts around 45 minutes and is accompanied by animations and motion graphics to bring concepts to life. Exercises, interactive case studies and analytical tools help to enhance the learning experience further.

Virtual Classroom, apprentices benefit from regular virtual classes with an experienced college tutor. A combination of tutor-led work, group exercises and discussion encourages apprentices to apply theory to real-life workplace situations. This modern, flexible approach to apprenticeship training empowers learners, minimises disruption to employers, and delivers tangible results in the workplace.

How will I be assessed?

To complete the Accounts/Finance Assistant Apprenticeship, apprentices will be expected to complete:

• A synoptic end-test covering the knowledge and skills gained throughout the on-programme stage and detailed in the standard.
• A portfolio and reflective discussion which will comprise a range of evidence produced in the work-place to show that the apprentice has met the knowledge, skills and behaviours detailed in the standard. The reflective discussion will be a structured interview to examine this evidence and the learner journey in more detail.

Course Cost

Apprenticeship, distance_learning: Contact us

• This course is free to apprentices, as the cost is paid by your employer.
• Large companies can fund the course using their apprenticeship levy.
• SMEs can access government funding to subsidise the cost by 95%.

What Next...

On successful completion of this course, you can progress to higher levels of the AAT Accounting Qualifications via apprenticeship training or through part-time courses (Level 3 and then on to Level 4).

Career opportunities

The skills and knowledge you will gain throughout this qualification will qualify you for roles including Accounts Assistant, Finance Assistant, Credit Control Assistant or Purchase Ledger Clerk.