Intermediate Apprenticeship (Level 2) Accounts or Finance Assistant
Role overview
Level: 2
Duration: 16 months
Awarding organisation:
AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians)
AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians)
Code: AP2AFIA
Build a strong foundation in finance with this entry-level AAT course — ideal for those starting a career in accounting or looking to support finance teams more effectively.
Learners will develop essential skills through hands-on training in:
- Bookkeeping transactions
- Costing and basic accounting principles
- Spreadsheet use
- Accounting software
This Apprenticeship prepares individuals to support a team of accountants by carrying out junior accounting duties, which may vary depending on the size and structure of the business.
Provides a practical route to upskill new or existing staff, ensuring they meet modern finance standards and can confidently contribute to day-to-day financial operations from day one.
Entry requirements
- GCSE grade C/4 (or equivalent) in English and Maths is desirable (employer discretion)
- If GCSE's not already achieved, apprentices will be required to complete Functional Skills Level 2 in English and/or Maths as part of the apprenticeship and initial assessments must show a minimum of Entry Level 3 in English and Maths to be eligible
Qualifications obtained
- L2 Apprenticeship Standard in Accounts or Finance Assistant
- L2 Foundation Certificate in Accounting
- L2 Functional Skills English and/or maths (if required)
Programme includes
Apprentices complete regular assessments that demonstrate how their learning is applied in the workplace.
To achieve the qualification, all units must be completed and assessed in a real work environment.
Units include:
- Introduction to Bookkeeping
- Principles of Bookkeeping Controls
- Principles of Costing
- Business Environment (Synoptic)
As part of End-Point Assessment, apprentices will sit the Synoptic exam and complete an AAT professional discussion prior to the final unit.
Where can you work?
Suitable for new or existing employees working in finance who are looking to gain a recognised qualification and progress in their career.
Typical roles include:
- Accounts Clerk
- Finance Assistant
- Purchase/Sales Ledger Clerk
- Accounts Administrator
- Invoicing Processor
- Cashier
- Accounts Payable Clerk
- Trainee Finance Assistant
Key information
- Cohort start dates: September, February, and May
- Enrolment: One month prior to cohort start date
- Delivery: Primarily workplace-based, with additional training at Loughborough College
- College attendance: Weekly sessions on either Tuesday or Thursday, 9:30am–3:00pm, followed by EPA preparation from 3:00pm–4:30pm
- Study day confirmed at enrolment; full session dates provided upon joining
Awarding organisation
- AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians)
Progression opportunities
- Assistant Accountant L3
- Business Administration L3
- Team Leader/Supervisor L3
Additional information
This apprenticeship is delivered through a blend of day release at Loughborough College and workplace visits from a dedicated trainer-assessor. Weekly sessions during term time include AAT tutorials, preparation for the End-Point Assessment interview, and core teaching.
Additional Costs:
- AAT membership (required): approx. £180 (Level 2)
- Course books: approx. £100
- Exam resits: approx. £60 per resit
- End-Point Assessment resits: additional cost (learner/employer responsibility)
If Functional Skills are required, these are delivered as part of the college timetable.
