A finance apprenticeship lets you earn a salary while you study for a qualification, with your training paid for. Councils, NHS trusts, housing associations and other public bodies all take on finance apprentices.
The levels
- Entry level. Finance or accounts assistant apprenticeships, often studying for AAT.
- Accounting technician. Higher apprenticeships, usually working towards the full AAT qualification.
- Professional accountant. Degree-level apprenticeships leading to a full professional qualification such as CIPFA, ACCA or CIMA.
What employers look for
Good numeracy, attention to detail and a willingness to learn. Check each advert for the GCSE grades or other qualifications it asks for.
Where it leads
Many apprentices stay on as finance officers or assistant accountants and go on to qualify fully. See how to get into public sector finance and the salary guide.