Practical Accounting & Financial Management

Equip employees with the financial skills to manage bookkeeping, payroll, tax, and reporting using industry-leading tools like Sage and Xero.

Part of our Finance Courses

Delivered as government-funded workforce training, this apprenticeship helps staff master practical accounting and financial management skills.

Government-funded accounting and finance apprenticeship using Sage and Xero

Course Overview

Our Accounting & Financial Management Apprenticeship builds strong foundations in both financial and management accounting. Through government-funded training, employees gain expertise in bookkeeping, payroll, tax compliance, and financial data analysis. This programme equips staff to contribute to accurate reporting, regulatory compliance, and improved decision-making, directly strengthening business performance.

Core Capabilities

Financial Accounting

Bookkeeping

Payroll Management

Taxation

Financial Reporting

Accounting Software

Organisational Benefits

Accurate Financial Reporting:

Enhance precision in financial data, supporting robust business analysis and strategic planning.

Streamlined Financial Processes:

Improve efficiency in bookkeeping, payroll, and compliance, reducing errors and saving time.

Ethical Data Handling:

Ensure responsible use of financial data and technology, mitigating risks and maintaining trust.

Curriculum Plan

Phase 1
Module 1
Financial Data Reporting and Compliance
  • Understand timelines and procedures for periodic financial reporting.
  • Accurately collate and record data from multiple departments or clients.
  • Prepare for both expected and ad-hoc financial reporting requests.
Module 2
Tax, Audit and Reconciliation Support
  • Understand the fundamentals of tax reporting (direct and indirect).
  • Support audit processes by preparing appropriate documentation.
  • Assist in preparing control account reconciliations with accuracy and consistency.
Phase 2
Module 3:
Financial Communication and Stakeholder Engagement
  • Present data clearly to support stakeholder decision-making.
  • Interpret and explain financial messages to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Module 4:
Digital Accounting Systems and Cyber Security
  • Operate accounting software and digital tools confidently.
  • Apply cyber safety principles and data protection standards.
  • Ensure secure data handling practices are followed.
Phase 3
Module 5:
Risk Management and Ethical Practices
  • Recognise and report financial irregularities or suspicious activity.
  • Demonstrate ethical behaviour and maintain client confidentiality.
  • Apply codes of conduct in workplace interactions.

Module 6:
Professional Development and Continuous Learning
  • Understand the importance of ongoing learning in finance and accounting.
  • Track and plan professional development activities.

  • Stay informed on changes in legislation, procedures, and technologies.
Module 7:
Ethical AI in the Workplace
  • Understanding ethical considerations and risks in AI technology
  • Identifying and mitigating bias in AI systems.
  • Strategies for reducing AI-related risks
  • Overview of key UK, US, and EU AI regulations
Gateway and independent preparation for end point assessment (EPA) 15-17 Months
  • Practice Knowledge Test 
  • Practice for Professional Discussion

Monthly Delivery Model

Structured Learning – 8 Hours
2 Hours

Tutor-Led Session

Interactive online session led by a tutor to introduce key concepts, build foundational knowledge, and provide targeted support aligned with the module.

1 Hours

Personal Development

Activities and discussions focused on applying learning to real-life scenarios, enhancing professional growth and soft skills.

2 Hours

Research and Development

Independent learning time dedicated to exploring relevant topics, conducting research, and expanding understanding beyond the core content.

3 Hours

Assignments and Assessments

Time allocated to completing tasks, assignments, and formal assessments that demonstrate knowledge, understanding, and progress.

Workplace-Based Application - 18 Hours
10 Hours

Work-Based Tasks

Structured activities designed to reinforce and apply learning directly within the apprentice’s job role, ensuring relevance and context.

8 Hours

Independent Applied Learning

Integration of newly acquired skills into day-to-day responsibilities, enabling continuous learning through practical experience in the workplace.

Approx 26 hours per month

How We Ensure Success

Measurable Impact

Government-funded workforce training delivers strong ROI, lowering costs while improving employee retention, efficiency, and compliance.

Applied Learning

Our programmes are customised to meet your organisation’s needs, with flexible delivery designed to minimise disruption.

Guided by Experts

Apprentices and employers benefit from ongoing support through a dedicated tutor and account manager.

Career Progression

This apprenticeship builds a pathway to higher-level accounting roles, supporting long-term career growth and organisational capability.

Key info

Level 3 Assistant Accountant

Accounting & Financial

Rated outstanding by Ofsted(opens new window).

Duration

Typical duration: 15 months

Eligibility Requirement

Age: Applicants must be 16 years or older at the start of the apprenticeship.

Right to Work: The individual must have the legal right to work in England and be employed in a role that supports their apprenticeship.

Residency:

  • Must have been ordinarily resident in the UK (or EEA, if applicable) for at least 3 years prior to the apprenticeship start date and must have the right to live and work in the UK for the full duration of the apprenticeship.
  • Post-Brexit, EEA citizens must have settled or pre-settled status.

Employment:  The apprentice must be employed in a role relevant to the apprenticeship standard or start a new job that fits the programme content.

Education:

  • GCSE Grade 4/C or above in English and Maths is the desired benchmark.
  • If not already achieved, Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths must be achieved before EPA. (if applicable)
  • Note:Functional Skills training and assessment is funded as part of the apprenticeship for eligible learners.

No Dual Enrolment: Apprentices must not be enrolled on another training programme funded or non funded at the same time as the apprenticeship.

Role Relevance:The apprentice’s role must allow them to develop the knowledge, skills, and behaviours outlined in the standard.

New Learning:

  • The apprentice must not have previously achieved the same or equivalent learning outcomes as covered in the apprenticeship.
  • Prior qualifications in related areas do not necessarily make a learner ineligible, unless they significantly overlap.

Fully- or Co-funded

Eligible for full Levy funding

Price: £12,000