Accounts/Finance Assistant (Apprenticeship Level 2)
Introduction
An Accounts/Finance Assistant is an integral part of the team responsible for maintaining an efficient and accurate finance function within a business. The Accounts/Finance Assistant is responsible for assisting the team of accountants with junior accounting duties. An Accounts/Finance Assistant’s work could include basic bookkeeping activities, working with sales and purchase ledgers, running calculations to ensure that records and payments are correct, recording of cash and data entry.
Accounts/Finance Assistants can work in almost any sector. Accounts/Finance Assistants may work in-house for an organisation or they might work for accountancy firm, bookkeeping practice or Shared Service provider.
Entry Requirements
Individual employers will set the selection criteria, but this might include GCSEs, a level 2 apprenticeship or other relevant qualifications, and relevant experience.
Functional Skills
Apprentices without Level 1 English and maths will need to achieve this level and take the test for level 2 prior to taking their end point assessment.
If this has already been achieved, then development of further English and maths skills will continue for the whole of the apprenticeship.
Duration
Typically 12-14 months.
Progression
With the right job role and a merit or distinction at AAT level 2, it is possible to progress to Assistant Accountant Level 3.
Funding
To achieve this apprenticeship standard, the employer, training provider and apprentice will agree when the apprentice is ready and competent to undertake the independent end assessment, which will test their skills knowledge and behaviours required for this role.
Qualification
Apprentices will be required to achieve AAT Foundation Certificate in Accounting (Level 2) before going through the Gateway.
End Assessment
The End Point Assessment methods are:
- Structured interview (supported by a portfolio of evidence summary)
- In-tray test
