FAQ’s about Accountancy Apprenticeships in Essex
What will I be doing?
You’ll spend most of your time at work with an employer (about 80% of your time). The rest of your time will be spent on ‘off-the-job’ learning. This can be made up of time spent on learning that is not directly related to your own role. This could be studying with us, spending time with other departments at your company learning about what they do or visiting a conference or trade fair. You will have a set job role and when you complete an apprenticeship level, there could be opportunities to progress to the next level and be promoted.
Why consider an apprenticeship programme?
- Apprenticeships can be the quickest way to qualify as an accountant in comparison to university after which you’d still need to study and sit exams to be fully qualified.
- There is no debt/cost as studies are funded by the government.
- Apprentices gain valuable skills for the workplace while studying which can be applied to their role.
At what age can you start an apprenticeship and what qualifications are required?
Apprentices need to be at least 16 but there is no upper age limit. Apprentices need to have gained a grade 4 or equivalent in Maths and English but if they don’t have these, they may be able to follow a functional skills programme to achieve an equivalent level in these subjects.
What can you study?
To train in accountancy apprentices will study one of these qualifications:

AAT – For those starting out or with no previous experience. You can train under a level 2, 3, or 4 apprenticeship.
ACCA – For those wishing to work in practice or industry. You can follow a level 4 or 7 apprenticeship programme.*

ICAEW Qualifications
ICAEW – Also for those wishing to work in practice or industry, the ICAEW can also be undertaken as a level 4 or 7 apprenticeship.*
*Employers may have a preference as to whether you study ACCA or ICAEW.
Are there many exams?
Apprentices sit exams approximately every three months whilst studying accountancy. AAT exams are on-demand whilst ACCA and ICAEW exams are generally sat at an exam centre. There are some remote options available. It’s also possible to liaise with the examining bodies should you need adjustments to suit your learning needs.
Further info about Accountancy Apprenticeships in Essex.
This guide has all the information you should need but our team are always happy to answer your questions. Please fill in the form above the FAQs and we will be happy to arrange a time to talk through your options.
Please use this page to view the apprenticeship programmes we offer in full.