AAT Level 2 – Accounts/Finance Assistant Apprenticeship

AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting alongside the Level 2 Accounts/Finance Assistant Apprenticeship, combining professional accounting study with practical workplace experience.

Your learning will cover:

• Introduction to bookkeeping – developing the foundations of bookkeeping, including recording financial transactions, and maintaining accurate accounting records.
• Bookkeeping controls – understanding the importance of accuracy, checking financial information, identifying errors, and carrying out basic reconciliations and controls.
• Principles of costing – developing an understanding of costs within a business and how financial information can be used to support day-to-day decision-making.
• Business environment – understanding how different organisations operate, the role of finance within a business, and the importance of professional, ethical, and responsible working.
• Accounting systems and technology – developing practical skills in using accounting software, spreadsheets, and digital systems to record and manage financial information securely.
• Workplace skills – developing your ability to communicate with colleagues and stakeholders, organise your work, work as part of a team, identify and resolve routine issues, and maintain accuracy and attention to detail.

Throughout the apprenticeship, you will apply your learning in the workplace, building the practical experience, confidence and professional behaviours needed to begin a successful career in accounting and finance.

Apprenticeships begin when an apprentice starts their role in the workplace. Throughout the programme, they will gain hands-on experience while learning on the job. In addition, apprentices attend a dedicated study day each week through classroom-based learning.

Classes are delivered either in the morning or afternoon, with the day varying depending on the course location and availability.

The apprenticeship is typically completed within 13–15 months. The programme includes on-programme learning, assessment, and workplace development, with time provided to complete all aspects of the apprenticeship. Individual elements may be completed at different stages depending on the learner’s progress and workplace opportunities.

Employment in a role relevant to your chosen apprenticeship is essential. Our Apprenticeships and Training team can support applicants in finding suitable employment where possible; however, we strongly encourage anyone interested in an apprenticeship to actively seek employment opportunities independently.

No previous accounting qualifications or experience are required for this apprenticeship. It is designed for individuals who are new to accounting and finance and want to develop their knowledge and skills while gaining valuable workplace experience.

Applicants are normally required to hold English and Maths at Grade 4 or above. Evidence of these qualifications must be provided at enrolment. If you are unable to produce certificates or do not meet these entry requirements, you may be invited to complete an initial assessment as part of the application process.

All applicants will be required to attend an interview to discuss their suitability for the apprenticeship and their existing experience and knowledge.

Your progress will be assessed throughout the apprenticeship through a combination of online examinations, workplace assessment, and regular progress checks.

• AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting – you will complete four online examinations covering Introduction to Bookkeeping, Principles of Bookkeeping Controls, Principles of Costing and The Business Environment.
• Knowledge and Skills Professional Discussion – you will take part in a professional discussion to demonstrate how you have developed and applied your knowledge and skills in the workplace.
• Behaviours – your workplace behaviours will be assessed by your employer and signed off as you develop throughout the apprenticeship.
• On-programme progress checks – regular reviews and progress checks will help you track your development, identify any support needed and ensure you are making good progress towards completion.

Career progression:

• Accounts Assistant
• Finance Assistant
• Accounts Administrator
• Purchase Ledger Assistant
• Sales Ledger Assistant
• Credit Controller
• Payroll Assistant
• Finance Administrator
• Accounts Payable Assistant
• Accounts Receivable Assistant
• Bookkeeper

Further education and professional study:

• Level 3 Assistant Accountant Apprenticeship

The apprenticeship also provides opportunities for professional recognition, including:

• Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) – Associate Member (AICB)
• Institute of Accountants and Bookkeepers (IAB) – Associate Member (AIAB)

Progression will depend on individual circumstances, including your experience, qualifications and the entry requirements of the next course or professional body.

All required course materials, books, exam fees, and registrations are provided as part of the apprenticeship.

You will need access to a suitable calculator for your accounting studies and assessments.

The costs of your apprenticeship training are covered through apprenticeship funding, subject to the relevant funding rules. Where applicable, this can be funded through your employer’s Apprenticeship Levy.

Your AAT registration, examination fees, Assessment fees and required course books and materials are also included as part of the apprenticeship, so there are no additional course fees for you to pay.

Take a look at our current apprenticeship vacancies by clicking the button at the top or clicking here.

If you find a suitable apprenticeship vacancy, click apply and submit your CV online. Our Apprenticeships and Training ecruitment team will be in touch with you about the next steps.

If you have already found your own employer and would like to apply for this apprenticeship, please contact Rachel Fieldhouse at rachel.fieldhouse@northernskills.co.uk to discuss the next steps.

If you are unable to find a vacancy, you can sign up to our apprenticeship bulletin to be notified of future vacancies – click here to sign up.

If you are leaving secondary school, you may also want to consider applying for a full-time course at Middlesbrough College as a backup.

If you have any questions about apprenticeships, call on 03453 404040 or email apprenticeships@mbro.ac.uk.

As an apprenticeship, you will be employed in a relevant accounting or finance role while completing your training.

This allows you to put your learning into practice and gain valuable, real-world experience within the workplace. You will develop your skills through your day-to-day role, working alongside experienced colleagues and taking on responsibilities relevant to the Accounts/Finance Assistant standard.

Your employer will support your development and provide opportunities for you to apply the knowledge and skills gained through your apprenticeship.

Our Apprenticeships and Training team will work with you and your employer throughout the programme to support your progress and ensure your workplace experience complements your learning.