What Is an Accounting Apprenticeship & Why More Students Are Choosing It?

If you are interested in pursuing a career in accounting but don’t want the thought of accumulating student loans or spending years in full-time education, an accounting apprenticeship may be the best option for you! Apprenticeships offer the opportunity to work, learn, obtain valuable experience at work, and a qualification all in one program.

In this article, we’re going to explain the ins and outs of accounting apprenticeships, what they are, how they work, the benefits, and how organizations such as Learnsignal can support you.

What Is an Accounting Apprenticeship?

An accounting apprenticeship is a structured program that combines practical on-the-job training, and study of a professional qualification. Apprenticeships are offered at various levels, from entry-level to degree-equivalent, and are typically geared toward school leavers, career changers and anyone seeking to gain practical experience alongside their study.

Preferably to university degrees, apprenticeships allow you to:

• Earn a salary
• Gain real work experience
• Study for recognised qualifications
• Lessen the burden of incurring large student debts

The majority of accounting apprenticeships lead to professional qualifications awarded by large institutions such as ACCA, AAT, or CIMA, allowing you to build an ideal foundation for a successful career in finance.

How Do Accounting Apprenticeships work?

An apprenticeship in accountancy involves a partnership of three parties:

1. The Employer – They offer the paid work placement, mentoring, and practical training.
2. The Training Provider – They deliver the study aspect, which can be online, in the classroom or a combination of both.
3. The Apprentice (you!) – You will spend time working for the business and studying for your qualification.

In the majority of cases it might be approximately 80% working and 20% studying although some of this would depend on the apprenticeship level and the company’s structure.

Types of Accounting Apprenticeships

There are different levels of apprenticeships in accounting to suit the current skills and qualifications of the apprentice:

1. Level 2 – Foundation Apprenticeship – This is the equivalent of GCSE level education and is a great starting point for a complete beginner with little or no experience. This covers the fundamental principles of accountancy, bookkeeping.
2. Level 3 – Advanced Apprenticeship – This level is equivalent to A-levels and is built on the foundation knowledge of Level 2 and expands more into technical accounting skills. As a Level 3 apprentice, many apprentices will study towards the AAT Advanced Diploma in Accounting.”.
3. Level 4 – Higher Apprenticeship – This is the equivalent of the first year of a university degree. Level 4 apprentices will typically study qualifications which include lumped modules into accounting operations or AAT Professional Diploma, or study towards the three professional body stages ACCA or CIMA.

4. Level 7 – Degree Apprenticeship – This is the top level and is equivalent to a master’s degree level. This would generally involve completing full professional qualifications e.g. ACCA, CIMA, or ICAEW ACA (Chartered Accountant).

What Qualifications Can You Get Through an Apprenticeship?

The vast majority of accounting apprenticeships are aligned with globally recognised qualifications. For example,

• AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians), this is a very popular qualification from those starting out – covering important fundamental knowledge when it comes to accounting and finance.
• ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), this is a globally respected qualification, which can be obtained alongside or after completing a higher level apprenticeship.
• CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants), for those looking for an accountancy apprenticeship in management accounting or business finance.
• ICAEW ACA, for those wanting to become Chartered Accountants. Typically undertaken through a higher or degree apprenticeship.

All of these examples of qualifications can lead on to a world of accounting, audit, tax and finance roles.

Why an accounting apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are becoming an increasingly attractive proposition for those aspiring to be accountants, here are a few reasons why.

1. Earn and learn – While completing an apprenticeship, all apprentices are paid a salary, and gain financial independence whilst completing their studies.
2. Gain real-life experience – Rather than simply being put through your studies, you will be working with experienced professionals alongside your qualification process, utilising your learned skills in real business situations – something that employers will really want.

3. No Student Fee – Apprenticeships are funded by the government and your sponsoring employer, so you will not incur the large tuition amounts that usually come with going to university.
4. Fast-Track Your Career – Many apprentices are quickly promoted within their organizations, and have the option to continue their educational goals into professional qualifications and managerial roles.
5. Professional Recognition – If your apprenticeship leads to qualifications like AAT, ACCA, or CIMA, it adds professionalism and further credibility and similar career prospects in the UK and worldwide.

Who is eligible for an accounting apprenticeship?

Accounting apprenticeships can be applied for by a broad range of individuals, you may be able to apply if:

• You are aged at least 16 years old
• You currently live in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland
• You are not currently enrolled in full time education
• You are able to meet requirements for entry (the requirements vary by level of apprenticeship)

School leavers, college students, career changers and even university graduates looking to retrain are eligible to apply.

How can Learnsignal help?

Arguably the biggest challenge apprentices face is balancing the obligations of working, studying, and for many, family or other personal commitments. It is expected that you perform your duties well at work, be studious in preparing for examinations and hopefully have time for yourself, but that’s where Learnsignal can support you in your journey.

Learnsignal is an online study platform designed for busy people, like apprentices. It gives you everything you need to pass your accounting exams in one place, without the stress.

Here’s why so many apprentices use Learnsignal alongside their jobs:

• 100% Flexible Learning – Whether you’ve got 20 minutes on your lunch break or a quiet evening to revise, you can access expert video lectures, notes, and practice questions anytime, anywhere.
• Focused on Passing Exams – Learnsignal doesn’t just teach theory. The materials are designed to help you pass your AAT, ACCA, or CIMA exams, with plenty of exam-style questions, technique tips, and even mock exams.
•  Budget-Friendly Subscription – Apprentices often have to be careful with money. Learnsignal’s simple monthly or annual plans give you full access to everything you need — usually much cheaper than traditional tuition providers.
• Ideal for Apprentices – Many apprentices say they love how Learnsignal lets them study on their own schedule, especially when work gets busy or unpredictable.

If you’re working towards an AAT, ACCA, or CIMA qualification as part of your apprenticeship, Learnsignal can be a practical, affordable way to stay on track — even when life gets hectic.

How to Find an Accounting Apprenticeship?

If you’re ready to start your apprenticeship journey, here are a few ways to find suitable opportunities:

Government Apprenticeship Websites

• England
• Scotland
• Wales
• Northern Ireland

1. Company Websites – Lots of large employers, including accounting firms, banks and public sector organisations, advertise apprenticeships directly on their company websites.
2. Recruitment Agencies – Specialist apprenticeship recruitment agencies may be able help you to partner with employers that are seeking apprentices in a managed recruitment process.
3. Job Boards – Websites such as Indeed, Reed, and TotalJobs often have lists of accounting apprenticeships to look through.

Conclusion

Becoming an accounting apprentice is a great way to start your finance career without any student debt. You’ll earn a salary, gain real life experience and working towards qualifications that lead to new, exciting job roles.

There are new course platform such as Learnsignal, which offer affordable, flexible study helpful study resources that you can work around your job, and with lots of great assistance to ensure you pass your exams and get qualified.

If you are serious about your future in accounting, whether it is AAT, ACCA, or CIMA, would consider doing an apprenticeship. It is the practical, respected, and increasingly popular way to start your career.