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 AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) qualification enables those working in accounting or those looking to pursue accountancy as a career to gain knowledge, practical experience and the all-important certification often sought by employers.

Study method

Apprentices will study Mindful Education’s award-winning video lessons during allotted time at work, and also attend regular sessions with a college tutor.

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 regular classes with an experienced college tutor, either in-person or virtually. A combination of tutor-led work, group exercises and discussion encourages apprentices to apply theory to real-life workplace situations.

This modern, flexible approach to apprenticeship training empowers learners, minimises disruption to employers, and delivers tangible results in the workplace.

Units of study

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

• Applied management accounting
• Drafting and interpreting financial statements
• Internal accounting systems and controls

These core units of study are assessed at unit level. In addition, a synoptic assessment will ask students to apply knowledge and skills gained across the qualification in an integrated way, within a workplace context. You will also study two optional units – your college will discuss this with you. 

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, 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.

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).

This course is free to apprentices, as the cost is paid by your employer. Large companies can fund the course using their apprenticeship levy. SMEs can access government funding to subsidise the cost by 95%.

How to apply

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