AAT Level 2 Apprenticeship: Accounts/Finance Assistant
Ideal for entry-level finance professionals or school leavers seeking foundational skills in accounting and workplace experience.
Overview
The Accounts/Finance Assistant Apprenticeship is a Level 2 programme, equivalent to GCSEs, and will equip you as an apprentice, with skills and knowledge that can be directly applied into your role.
We offer the AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting as the regulated qualification for this apprenticeship. An apprenticeship at this level is ideal for team members who assist with financial tasks and undertake junior accounting duties.
This apprenticeship offers a great qualification to prepare you for junior and entry-level accounting roles, giving you a solid foundation in areas such as double entry bookkeeping, basic costing principles and more in-depth knowledge about the business environment.
This flexible apprenticeship is delivered in partnership with the award-winning online learning platform from Mindful Education and combines online learning with tutor-led workshops on a fortnightly basis.
On successful completion of this course, you will be awarded the internationally recognised AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting as well as completing your valuable apprenticeship.
The apprenticeship provides a comprehensive introduction to accounting principles, setting a strong base for future development and higher-level qualifications.
The AAT Level 2 Apprenticeship: Accounts/Finance Assistant is designed for those starting a career in finance or accounting, particularly as an Accounts or Finance Assistant. It’s ideal for:
Building a career in finance, leading to roles like Trainee Assistant Accountant, Ledger Administrator, or Payroll Clerk.
School leavers or early-career professionals seeking a foundational role in accounting.
Individuals looking to gain practical skills in finance while earning a recognized qualification.
Those interested in earning while learning through an apprenticeship route, with a structured learning path combining hands-on experience and formal training.
Employers aiming to upskill junior team members in basic financial processes such as data entry, bookkeeping, and assisting with accounts preparation.
Accreditation: Fully approved by the Association of Accounting Technicians, this programme lays a solid foundation in essential accounting principles and practices.
Provider status: Delivered by a trusted and recognised provider listed on the government register of apprenticeship training providers, ensuring high-quality and compliant training.
Comprehensive curriculum: Covers fundamental topics, including bookkeeping transactions, bookkeeping controls, principles of costing and the business environment.
Innovative learning approach: Combines expert-led tuition, real-world workplace application, and cutting-edge digital learning tools, providing apprentices with a practical and flexible learning experience.
Dedicated support: Apprentices receive ongoing support, including access to experienced tutors, personalised one-on-one coaching, and a collaborative support network to help them thrive throughout their apprenticeship journey.
Professional qualification: Achieve a recognised AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting.
Career advancement: Gain the knowledge and skills necessary for career progression in the accounting field.
Practical experience: Apply theoretical knowledge through hands-on work experience.
Flexibility: Structured to accommodate working professionals, ensuring a balance between study and work commitments.
Completing the AAT Level 2 Apprenticeship: Accounts/Finance Assistant opens doors to:
Progression to higher-level apprenticeships, including the AAT Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Accounting.
Jobs you can aspire to once qualified: Assistant Accountant, Payroll Manager, Bookkeeper, Finance Officer, or Credit Controller.
Practical experience in essential finance tasks such as bookkeeping, financial reporting, and payroll.
A solid foundation for a long-term career in accounting and finance across diverse sectors.
At Reed Business School, we have a long history of delivering industry-leading results, based on over 50 years in the business. We provide the very highest standard of professional accountancy training for anyone looking to advance in their accounting career. When you learn with us, you’ll get access to:
Support from an AAT-qualified tutor - Our AAT tutors will be there to support you throughout your studies with us. You’ll be able to ask them questions in class or on Microsoft Teams during business hours
A variety of delivery options to suit your needs - We offer a variety of delivery options including 100% online, classroom learning at our conveniently located training centres, and residential study programs at our iconic 11th-century manor
Study materials to help you pass first time - All our AAT courses include access to additional online study materials including Green Light Tests, webinars, and practice assessments for each unit
Recognised accreditation - We take a specialised approach to teaching based on over 50 years' delivering accounting qualifications. It’s helped thousands of students pass their exams and succeed in their careers
Delivery options
Flexible Delivery Options
With our wide range of delivery options, Reed Business School provides tailored support for each student’s needs, ensuring a productive and enriching learning experience for every stage of their accountancy career.
To accommodate different learning preferences, Reed Business School offers four delivery methods:
All the benefits of our Classroom delivery method and an immersive on-site learning experience in a unique, comfortable setting at our Cotswolds Manor.
Delivered at our iconic Manor, where you’ll get to know other learners, relax in our first-class accommodation and enjoy delicious homemade meals.
Ideal for learners wanting an immersive experience.
Unique learning environment: A picturesque location in the heart of the Cotswolds, ideal for focused study.
All-inclusive learning experience: Residential facilities and a relaxing, friendly atmosphere conducive to immersive study without distractions.
Engaging real-time learning: Small classroom-based sessions with peers and dedicated, experienced tutors who are subject specialists.
Structured delivery plan: In-class assignments, exam preparation, and a clear path to success.
Comprehensive resources: Study books, digital course materials, online resources, and access to recorded sessions for revision.
In-person and online tutor support: Receive expert guidance whenever needed.
Access to outstanding facilities: Benefit from state-of-the-art learning environments.
Networking opportunities: Connect with like-minded professionals and peers.
Traditional face-to-face classes with experienced tutors. If you like the idea of learning in person, where you bounce around ideas with other learners, then our face-to-face classes are for you. Classes take place every few months at one of our many UK venues.
Ideal for learners who prefer traditional classroom settings
Face-to-face interaction
Convenient locations across the UK
Engaging in real-time learning experience
Structured delivery plan
Networking opportunities
In-person and online tutor support
Study books and online resources
Access to recorded sessions
In-class assignments and exam preparation
Our venues span London, Northampton, Birmingham, Newcastle, Cambridge, Little Compton, and many other locations. If you have a specific place in mind, reach out to us - we’d be happy to discuss options to suit your needs.
Get all the benefits of in-person learning, all from the comfort of your home. Great if you need a little more flexibility when it comes to location, but still want the opportunity to interact with other learners.
Ideal for learners who want the classroom experience from the comfort of their home
Live classroom sessions streamed online
Dynamic delivery and instant Q&A
Collaborative activities
Engaging real-time learning experience
Structured delivery plan
Networking opportunities (online)
Online tutor support
Study books and online resources
Access to recorded sessions
Online assignments and exam preparation
Flexible, live sessions accessible from any location.
Experience the flexibility of Live Online learning and engage in real-time, interactive sessions from anywhere. Achieve your goals without the commute!
Ideal for learners who want the flexibility to study from any location
Live interactive sessions online
Dynamic delivery and instant Q&A
Collaborative activities
Engaging real-time learning experience
Structured delivery plan
Networking opportunities (online)
Access to full tutor support (online)
Access to study books and online resources
Access to recorded sessions
Online assignments and exam preparation
Here's what to expect from your apprenticeship
This qualification will advance apprentices in junior and entry-level accounting roles by delivering a solid foundation in finance administration. Here's what to expect:
Foundational training: Build essential knowledge in areas like basic bookkeeping, accounts preparation, and financial administration, providing a strong starting point for a career in accounting and finance.
Practical, on-the-job learning: Combine workplace experience with structured study, applying new skills in real-world scenarios while gaining valuable professional insights.
Exams & qualifications: Work through structured assessments to achieve the AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting, a recognised qualification that opens doors to more advanced junior finance roles and beyond.
Flexible learning options: Choose from Residential, Classroom, Online Classroom, or Live Online learning to fit your schedule and preferences.
Upon completion, apprentices will have the skills, experience, and qualification to excel in entry-level finance roles or progress to more advanced apprenticeships and qualifications, such as AAT Level 3.
There are four units of study, these modules are:
Introduction to Bookkeeping
Principles of Bookkeeping Controls
Principles of Costing
The Business Environment (this module will be included as part of your End Point Assessment for new starters from 1st July 2024)
You will also develop business communications and lifelong learning skills, applying what you learn on the course to the wider industry context. As an apprentice, you will also be required to complete the End Point Assessment (EPA).
Exams:
Modular units each have their own computer-based exam. Computer-marked assessments results will be received within 48 hours of your assessment. Any assessment that contains human-marked elements can take up to 6 weeks to be returned. Your exams can take place at any AAT Exam Venue, including Reed Business School.
Off-the-job-training:
As a requirement of your apprenticeship being funded, you are required to complete 20% of your working week in off-the-job training. Your hours can be recorded and tracked allowing you to complete this element of your studies. You will also have quarterly progress reviews with a learning coach/assessor to evaluate your progress towards your Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours (KSB’s). These reviews are a 3-way discussion between the apprentice, employer, and provider.
What is the End Point Assessment?
The EPA for this apprenticeship standard will consist of two parts.
Completion of structured discussion with an AAT end-point assessment to reflect upon your time as an apprentice,
Completion of the Business Environment Synoptic assessment.
The End Point Assessment takes place once you have completed all the on-programme requirements of the apprenticeship and have your completed portfolio to enter “Gateway” at 12 months.
Entry requirements
To be an apprentice, you will need to be employed in a relevant finance, bookkeeping or accounting role.
Students can start with any qualification depending on existing skills and experience. There are no formal entry requirements, but we recommend that students begin their studies with a good standard of English and maths.
Before choosing your level of study, we will require you to visit the AAT website to complete the skills checker test to gauge your current knowledge.
You can access the AAT's skills checker here: AAT Skillcheck | AAT
Duration
The duration of the Accounts / Finance Assistant Apprenticeship is split into two distinct areas.
You will be on programme studying for your AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting qualification for 12 months, followed by a 3 month “window” to complete your EPA. In total, you will be on your apprenticeship for around 15 months.
Pricing & Funding
AAT Level 2 apprenticeship Accounts/Finance Assistant - £7,000
For levy-paying employers, the apprenticeship will be funded through the digital Apprenticeship Service account.
For non-levy paying employers, government funding will be applied for to cover up to 100% of the course value, subject to circumstances.
Enquire today to discuss your apprenticeship needs and discover how our tailored programs can enhance skills, boost careers, and drive growth for both individuals and businesses.
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