This course includes the first level of the full AAT qualification. It is ideal for you if you are currently working in accounting, whether it is your first job since leaving education or whether you are changing career. This course will give the apprentice the skills needed to work in a variety of job roles, such as:
Accounts Assistant / Accounts Payable Clerk / Accounts Administrator / Business Accounts Administrator / Finance Assistant Junior / Cost Accountant Assistant / Assistant Bookkeeper / Junior Cashier / Junior Credit Control Clerk / Data Input Clerk / Accounts Receivable Clerk/ General Administrator / Bank Reconciliation Clerk/ Cash Poster/ Finance Administrator.
The apprentice will be required to study the knowledge, skills and behaviours which are essential in accounting.
The knowledge elements comprise of:
- General business
- Understanding your organisation
- Accounting systems and processes
- Basic accounting
- Ethical standards
The skills elements comprise of:
- Attention to detail
- Communication
- Uses systems and processes
- Personal effectiveness
The behaviours comprise of:
- Teamwork
- Personal development
- Professionalism
- Customer focus
The apprentice may also need to study and pass Functional Skills qualifications in maths and English at Level 2 prior to their apprenticeship enrolment, depending upon their previous achievements.
Lessons will involve workshops, lectures, group work, directed study, computer packages, tutorials and individual work.
As an apprentice, a vast amount of learning takes place 'on-the-job' through training and the practical application of skills, knowledge and behaviours.
Typically, the apprentice will attend college for 5 hours a week over a period of at least 12 months. It is also expected that the apprentice will devote an equivalent amount of time outside of college hours, carrying out independent study.
The apprentice will receive 1:1 support and coaching from an allocated coach, who may visit the workplace every 6 to 8 weeks. The apprentice will be required to build up a detailed portfolio providing practical evidence from their job role, to demonstrate that the required knowledge, skills and behaviours have been developed.
The duration of the apprenticeship will vary from 12 to 15 months depending on the start date.
Level 2 Accounts / Finance Assistant Apprenticeship
Level 2 AAT Foundation Certificate in Accounting
Level 2 Functional Skills English and Level 2 Functional Skills Maths (if required)
Each unit in the Level 2 AAT Certificate in Accounting is assessed by a computer based exam, set and marked by the AAT. These 5 computerised accounting exams will be held in class time wherever possible; however, it may be necessary to sit the exams outside of class time and in these instances, dates and times will be given to you at the start of the course. The minimum mark required to achieve a "pass" is 70% in each exam. Students achieving higher marks will be awarded "merit" and "distinction" grades.
The apprentice's progress and development will be assessed at regular stages throughout the apprenticeship - this is likely to be a combination of assignments, activities, exams, reflective discussions and observations in the workplace.
The employer and training provider will formally sign-off the apprentice's readiness for the independent End Point Assessment (EPA) at 'gateway'. Gateway is the point at which the apprentice has met and can confidently apply the minimum skills, knowledge and behaviours required, as detailed within the apprenticeship standard.
The End Point Assessment (EPA) consists of the following 2 components and can only be taken after 12 months of on-programme learning, as well as the full completion of the Level 2 AAT Certificate in Accounting.
Assessment Method
Role simulation - AAT In Tray Test
Structured interview (supported by a portfolio of evidence summary)
Both assessment methods will be conducted and graded by the AAT.
In order to gain a place on this course, applicants must meet the entry criteria and attend a formal interview. All applications are to be submitted via the college website:
https://www.solihull.ac.uk/apprentice/how-do-i-apply
If you have a learning difficulty or disability, please let us know when you apply. If you need help with completing your application and at interview, we can provide support:
https://www.solihull.ac.uk/uni-level-learner/student-services
Apprentices without Level 1 English and maths will need to achieve it and have taken the test for level 2, but prior to their enrolment on this apprenticeship.
For those with an Education, Health and Care Plan or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship's minimum requirement is Entry Level 3 in English and maths.
British Sign Language qualifications are an alternative to English qualifications, if it is their primary language.
You must be in relevant employment, where your employer is willing to support your apprenticeship.
Please note that individual employers may also determine their own entry requirements.
If all assessment methods are not passed within 4 months from the gateway date, then the entire End Point Assessment (EPA) must be repeated.
Re-sits / re-takes are not offered to apprentices wishing to move from a pass to distinction grade.
Text books cost: £100 approx.
AAT student registration fee: N/A - included.
Exam re-sits: TBC
Please contact the Employer Services Team for more information regarding funding and costs or email accounts@solihull.ac.uk
Successful students who meet the attendance requirements will be offered a place on the Level 3 Assistant Accountant Apprenticeship, or the Level 3 AAT Advanced Diploma in Accounting. Students who are successful on this course may gain a promotion within their organisation.
Work-based
Various
Various
TBC
N/A
ZPA00488OCAP
Part Time
