ICAEW Level 4 Apprenticeship: Professional Accounting
Ideal for school leavers or entry-level finance professionals seeking foundational accounting skills and practical workplace experience.
Overview
The ICAEW Level 4 Apprenticeship: Professional Accounting programme at Reed Business School is ideal for those starting their journey in accounting and finance, particularly those aspiring to build a strong foundation in the profession.
It is designed to equip apprentices with essential technical knowledge, practical skills, and ethical awareness needed for junior accounting roles. Delivered through expert-led tuition, interactive resources, and workplace experience, the programme prepares learners for the ICAEW Certificate in Finance, Accounting, and Business (CFAB).
With dedicated support, flexible study options, and a focus on practical application, this apprenticeship is perfect for those beginning their accounting career while gaining valuable workplace experience.
The ICAEW Level 4 Apprenticeship: Accounting programme is ideal for:
Aspiring finance professionals seeking a solid foundation in accounting principles.
School leavers or early-career individuals starting their journey in the accountancy field.
Professionals aiming to formalise their skills and gain an industry-recognised qualification.
Individuals transitioning into accountancy, keen to develop competencies in financial reporting, bookkeeping, and taxation.
Accreditation: Approved by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), providing a strong foundation in accounting principles and practices.
Provider status: Delivered by a trusted provider listed on the government register of apprenticeship training providers.
Comprehensive curriculum: Covers key topics such as bookkeeping, financial accounting, tax compliance, and principles of audit and assurance.
Innovative learning approach: Combines expert-led tuition, hands-on workplace experience, and digital resources for flexible and practical learning.
Dedicated support: Access to experienced tutors, one-on-one coaching, and a supportive network to help apprentices excel at every stage.
Professional Qualification: Achieve a recognised ICAEW Level 4 qualification (CFAB).
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 ICAEW Level 4 Apprenticeship: Professional Accounting programme can lead to:
Roles such as assistant accountant, accounts technician, or junior auditor.
Progression into higher-level qualifications, including the ICAEW Level 7 Apprenticeship.
Opportunities to gain hands-on experience in financial accounting, reporting, and management.
A strong foundation for a rewarding career in finance across various industries.
As an ICAEW-approved learning partner since 1972, Reed Business School has a strong legacy of delivering world-class accountancy tuition, helping learners achieve consistently high pass rates above the national average. With a commitment to excellence, we go above and beyond ICAEW best practice benchmarks for institution and course management, delivery, and student support.
Reed Business School is listed on the Government Register of Apprenticeship Training Providers and is fully approved to deliver apprenticeship training. This means that we offer the ICAEW Level 4 apprenticeship, combining professional skills development with hands-on experience to equip apprentices with the expertise needed to excel in senior finance roles.
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
Evening classes available
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
What’s involved
Here's what to expect:
The ICAEW Level 4 Apprenticeship: Professional Accounting is a foundational programme combining structured learning with practical, on-the-job experience. Here’s what’s involved:
Comprehensive training: Develop knowledge in core areas such as bookkeeping, financial reporting, and management accounting, providing a solid foundation for a career in accounting.
On-the-job learning: Integrate workplace experience with formal study, applying your knowledge in real-world settings and building essential professional skills.
Exams & qualifications: Progress through structured assessments to achieve the ICAEW Level 4 Certificate in Finance, Accounting and Business (CFAB), a recognised qualification for aspiring accounting professionals.
Ethics & professional development: Build an understanding of ethical principles and professional standards, preparing you for trusted roles in the finance industry.
Flexible delivery options: Choose from Residential, Classroom, Online Classroom, or Live Online learning to fit your schedule and preferences.
Upon completion, apprentices will be well-prepared for junior finance roles or to progress to higher-level apprenticeships, further enhancing their accounting careers.
Certificate Level: Fundamentals of accountancy, finance, and business.
Accounting (AC)
Assurance (AS)
Business, Technology and Finance (BTF)
Law
Management Information (MI)
Principles of Taxation (PTX)
These modules will be examined via on-demand computer-based exams (e-assessments, 1.5 hours each).
These exams can be taken at Reed Business School or at a local Pearson VUE centre. Students will be permitted a maximum of four attempts at each module. These six modules are also available as a standalone certificate, the ICAEW Certificate in Finance, Accounting and Business (ICAEW CFAB)
The three core elements of the Apprenticeship: Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours
Knowledge
You’ll gain the technical knowledge needed to pass your professional exams, mapped out in a personalised Training Plan tailored to your study needs and exemptions. The programme culminates in a Case Study exam, which forms part of your End Point Assessment.
Skills
Throughout the apprenticeship, you’ll develop essential professional skills required for success in your role. These skills are assessed during the End Point Assessment and supported by online modules designed to meet specific criteria.
Progress is tracked using an online e-portfolio platform, including your ‘off-the-job’ training. Each apprentice is paired with a dedicated learning coach who meets quarterly with both the apprentice and their line manager to provide support and guidance.
Behaviours
The apprenticeship also focuses on developing professional behaviours essential for success. These are assessed during the End Point Assessment and supported by the same online modules and quarterly coaching sessions.
Ongoing evaluation
Your 20% off-the-job training will be evaluated throughout the programme, focusing on the development of your Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSBs).
Once you’ve completed the on-programme requirements, you’ll submit an End Point Assessment, which evaluates your combined Skills, Knowledge, and Behaviours.
Reed Business School is an approved Computer-Based Exam (CBE) centre, and all apprentices must register with ICAEW before starting.
Entry requirements
There are various pathways to begin the ACA qualification. However, ICAEW states that there are no set entry requirements so this apprenticeship is open to all!
Interested in advancing your accounting career? Enquire today about our ICAEW Level 4 Accounting Technician Apprenticeship and take the next step towards becoming a skilled professional.
For more details, you can view the ACA entry routes here: ACA entry routes
Duration
The ICAEW Level 4 Apprenticeship: Accounting Professional programme typically takes 18 to 24 months to complete, depending on prior qualifications and individual progress. This timeframe allows apprentices to build essential technical knowledge, complete exams, and gain practical experience in accounting.
Each apprentice progresses through the programme at a pace suited to their learning and career needs, with ongoing support from experienced tutors to ensure success and development.
Pricing & funding
ICAEW Level 4 Apprenticeship: Accountancy Professional - £8,000
For levy-paying employers, the apprenticeship will be funded through the digital Apprenticeship Service account.
Useful links
If you're currently a student or considering ICAEW with us, you'll find find all essential resources here, from course outlines to application forms.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact our support team. We're here to help ensure your success every step of the way. Remember to return your forms to rbs.reed@reedbusinessschool.co.uk.
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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