Everybody needs help looking after their money, whether it’s the exceptionally rich, an entrepreneur starting a business or a student who’s run into a large amount of debt by deciding to stay in full time education. Well you can be that person who provides careful planning and constant attention to an individuals or company’s bank balance. You’ve also decided to follow a career path that the higher you go- the more money you earn, so why not consider an accounting apprenticeship!
What’s it about?
Businesses have too many financial activities going on around them and need the help from accountants to keep track of all these expenses, bills and taxes- while it’s the same for many individuals. So as an apprentice you could be monitoring the finances for one of a variety of sources.
It might be with a business, a charity, a retail store, a football club or even the government… (Although, I wouldn’t begrudge anyone who has the burden of keeping track of those guy’s expenses.)
You’ll learn how to balance accounts, process invoices and payments, complete VAT returns and prepare financial reports- and depending on where you work, you could be specialising in one area – like sales – or doing all these tasks and more.
Who’s it for?
You need to be good at maths, understand financial terms and have good IT skills (especially with spreadsheets) if you want a career in accounting. Someone who works in accounts also need to be a trustworthy person as you may be dealing with confidential and sensitive information and you must be well organised.
Taking an interest in up to date financial industry news is also well advised. You don’t want to be advising anyone with the wrong decision if the current economy suggests otherwise, or your customer certainly won’t come back for help from you again. (He probably couldn’t afford to anyway after that misjudgement) So a strong commercial sense is also needed.
However it’s equally as important to be good with people and enjoy the challenge of helping others achieve their financial goals.
What do I get out of it?
Most apprentices qualify as accounts assistants, credit control clerks, accounts clerks, or finance assistants; who all help accountants to keep financial records and prepare accounts. Once you do qualify, a salary of £12k-£16k is standard.
If you take an Advanced Apprenticeship, you’ll have the foundation to complete a professional accountancy qualification with a membership organisation like the ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA, which can lead to a specialist role in accounting- and subsequently, more money!
A level 2 apprenticeship is usually made up of; a technical certificate, an NVQ or SVQ (for those in Scotland), Key, Core or Essential skills in generic business activities and Employment Rights and Responsibilities work.
It’ll be ‘taxing’- but it’ll be worth it in the end once you qualify!
What vacancies are there?
Check out our accountancy apprenticeship vacancies section to find the right opportunity for you!
