Professional Accounting Technician Apprenticeship - AAT Level 4

What will I learn?

In this apprenticeship you will cover higher accounting tasks including drafting financial statements, managing budgets and evaluating financial performance.

Optional specialist units are also available. Apprentices who complete these additional two units will be awarded an AAT Level 4 Professional Diploma in Accounting and be eligible to apply for full AAT membership. This internationally recognised qualification enables those working in accounting or those who are looking to pursue accountancy as a career to gain knowledge, practical experience and the all-important certification often sought by employers.

Study method

Online lessons can be accessed at any time, using a mobile, tablet or desktop – meaning apprentices can fit their study around work commitments, minimising disruption in the workplace. Each lesson lasts around 45 minutes and is accompanied by animations and motion graphics to bring concepts to life. Exercises, interactive case studies and analytical tools help to enhance the learning experience further.

On campus, apprentices benefit from face-to-face classes at college with an experienced tutor. A combination of classroom-based lessons, group exercises and discussion encourage apprentices to apply theory to real-life workplace situations.

Units of study

The Level 4 apprenticeship covers a range of key areas, including:

• Management Accounting: Budgeting
• Management Accounting: Decision and Control
• Financial Statements of Limited Companies
• Accounting Systems and Controls
• Professional Diploma Synoptic Assessment

These core units of study are assessed at unit level. In addition, a synoptic assessment will ask learners to apply knowledge and skills gained across the qualification in an integrated way, within a workplace context.

In addition, the following optional units can be added to complete the AAT Level 4 Professional Diploma in Accounting (but are not mandatory as part of the apprenticeship):

• Business tax
• Personal tax
• External auditing
• Cash and Treasury Management
• Credit Management

You will also develop business communications and lifelong learning skills, applying what you learn on the course to the wider industry context.

How will I be assessed?

After completing their On Programme Learning, sitting a synoptic end-test covering the knowledge and skills gained throughout the on-programme stage and detailed in the standard, apprentices will be expected to complete their End Point Assessment (EPA), consisting of:

• An online assessment, where you’ll tackle a series of business-related tasks through simulation in line with typical role activities; and
• Submission of a portfolio of evidence gathered from the workplace. You must then reflect on the portfolio through a written statement or professional discussion.

Entry requirements

Applicants will need to be employed in a relevant accounting role.

You must have a sound knowledge of accounting principles to undertake the AAT Level 4 programme. Achievement of an AAT Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Accounting is essential.

Progression

The accountancy skills developed by studying this qualification will enable you to seek employment with confidence, and/or to progress to study chartered accountancy.

Career opportunities

The Professional Diploma in Accounting can lead to the achievement of professional AAT (MAAT) status. Employment opportunities include: Accounts Payable and Expenses Supervisor, Assistant Financial Accountant, Commercial Analyst, Cost Accountant, Indirect Tax Manager, Payments and Billing Manager, Payroll Manager, Senior Finance Officer, Senior Insolvency Administrator, Tax Supervisor, VAT Accountant.

If you successfully complete this qualification and fulfil the AAT’s work experience requirements, you can apply for AAT full membership and achieve professional AAT (MAAT) status.

Additional information

The duration of the apprenticeship will be 15-18 months. On Campus attendance is one day per fortnight during term time, some sessions may be virtual (this may vary depending on your chosen study centre).

How to apply

If you are considering an apprenticeship, applications can be made via our partner colleges and training providers.