Apprenticeship Summary
Develop the finance professionals who drive business performance
The Assistant Accountant - Level 3 Apprenticeship is designed for employers looking to build a highly skilled finance workforce. Whether you're recruiting new talent or developing existing staff, this apprenticeship equips employees with the advanced accounting knowledge and practical experience needed to support financial decision-making and business success.
Apprentices develop technical accounting expertise while studying towards the prestigious AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting, helping your organisation strengthen its finance capability and build a pipeline of future accounting professionals.
Is this apprenticeship right for your business?
If you need employees who can take greater responsibility for financial processes, support compliance requirements and contribute to the effective management of business finances, this apprenticeship offers an excellent solution.
Assistant Accountants play a key role in organisations of all sizes and sectors, supporting day-to-day financial activities, management reporting and statutory financial processes. They work within finance teams or accountancy practices, delivering accurate and timely financial information to internal and external stakeholders.
What will Apprentices Learn?
Apprentices will develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours required to perform accounting duties with confidence and accuracy.
As part of the apprenticeship, apprentices complete planned off-the-job training through a blend of college-based learning, workplace coaching, online study, professional development activities and work-based projects.
Apprentices typically attend college on a day-release basis.
Programme content includes:
- Financial accounting and the preparation of financial statements
- Management accounting techniques
- Business awareness and commercial understanding
- Tax processes and regulatory requirements
- VAT and financial compliance activities
- Accounting systems and digital technologies
- Financial reporting and analysis
- Professional ethics and sustainability
- Communication and stakeholder management
- Problem solving and continuous improvement
Key themes including technology, ethics, sustainability and professional behaviours are embedded throughout the programme
Learning combines expert teaching with practical workplace application, helping apprentices add value to your organisation throughout their development.
We'll work closely with you to ensure the apprenticeship supports both your business objectives and the apprentice's career progression.
Professional qualification included:
Apprentices will achieve the AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting as part of the apprenticeship.
This nationally recognised qualification is highly respected by employers and provides apprentices with the technical knowledge needed to progress within the accounting profession.
Entry Requirements
Apprentices should be employed in a suitable finance or accounting role that allows them to demonstrate the knowledge, skills and behaviours required by the occupational standard.
Apprentices should also hold a grade 4 or equivalent in both GCSE English and maths.
Apprentices may be required to work towards English and maths qualifications as part of their apprenticeship where appropriate. We will provide advice on the requirements that apply to your apprentice and support them throughout their learning journey.
How is the Apprentice Assessed?
Apprentices are assessed throughout the programme through workplace activities, reviews and achievement of the qualification.
At the end of the apprenticeship, apprentices complete an End-Point Assessment (EPA) which includes:
• A knowledge assessment
• A professional discussion supported by a portfolio of evidence
This confirms the apprentice has achieved the knowledge, skills and behaviours required by the Assistant Accountant occupational standard.
We will prepare both employers and apprentices for every stage of the assessment process.
Need Help Finding the Right Apprentice?
Our Apprenticeship Onboarding Team can support you through every stage of the recruitment process, including promoting your vacancy to prospective candidates, including talent within our existing student cohort here at the College.
Whether you're recruiting your first apprentice or expanding your workforce, we'll help you find the right candidate for your business.
Ready to get started?
If you're looking to recruit an apprentice or upskill an existing employee, our Employer Engagement Team is here to help.
Get in touch today to discuss your workforce needs, funding options and upcoming start dates.
Funding and Employer Incentives
Apprenticeships are a cost-effective way to recruit new talent or develop your existing workforce, with significant government funding available for eligible employers.
Our Employer Engagement Team will explain the funding and incentives available to your organisation. View our latest Apprenticeship Funding and Employer Incentives for the most up-to-date information.
Career Progression
The Assistant Accountant apprenticeship is an excellent progression route for employees looking to advance within the accounting profession. Potential progression opportunities include:
• Professional Accounting or Taxation Technician Apprenticeship
• AAT Level 4 Professional Diploma in Accounting
• Management Accountant
• Finance Officer
• Senior Accounts Assistant
• Assistant Management Accountant