Accounts / Finance Assistant
(Level 2 Apprenticeship)
Who is this suitable for?
The Level 2 Apprenticeship in Accounting is suitable for anyone with little or no prior experience in an accounts function. It is therefore a natural entry point for school leavers or for those currently working in a non-finance role or working in an accounts role with limited or no knowledge of double entry bookkeeping. An Apprenticeship is only eligible for funding if the apprentice will be acquiring significantly new skills during their apprenticeship.
The Apprenticeship Structure
Unlike the Levels 3 and 4 Apprenticeships, the Level 2 Apprenticeship has a mandatory qualification element, which in our programme, is our AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting.
For a student to complete the apprenticeship they must complete:
- The AAT Units
- Structured Interview (supported by a portfolio of evidence)
- Off the job training of 278 hours
- End Point Assessment
The End Point Assessment comprises a Structured Interview and Synoptic Exam.
For Apprenticeships commencing from 1st August 2025, the minimum duration is now 8 months, rather than 12. Although most Level 2 apprenticeships will still last 12 months we will agree with you a duration that suits the experience and abilities of your apprentice.
Once the student has completed the AAT Units and Off the Job training hours requirement and met the minimum 8 month duration, they will be eligible for Gateway. Once a student hits Gateway, they will be invited to a Planning Meeting to further discuss the structure of the upcoming EPA.
Preparation for the Synoptic Exam
In order to successfully complete the Business Environment Synoptic Exam (BESY), apprentices need to have a thorough understanding of the underpinning knowledge of the Business Environment Unit (BENV) and previous AAT units, as outlined in the table above. Principles of Costing is the only unit not tested in the synoptic exam.
The BESY Exam is a remote computer based (online) exam and will last for 120 minutes.
Preparation for the Structured Interview
The Structured Interview will consist at least 6 questions and these will be asked by an Independent Assessor. The interview must last for 60 minutes and will normally be performed remotely via an on-line video portal. The interview is a method of assessing the practical knowledge and experience the apprentice has gained over the course of their apprenticeship, both in the workplace and via studies.
The Structured Interview must be completed before a student can sit the Synoptic Exam.
The interview covers 3 themes that encompass the knowledge, skills and behaviours not covered by the mandatory qualification:
- Professionalism and ethics
- Communication
- Digital technology in accounting and finance
To support this interview, apprentices will be advised to prepare a ‘Portfolio’ of learning during their apprenticeship. This is a place for the student to record key experiences from the workplace that align with the Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours of the apprenticeship. The portfolio could include:
- Written statements of the students’ experiences
- Screenshots of software used in the workplace
- Tasks, assignments or goals that have been set for the apprentice
- Communication with colleagues and clients
- Certificates
- Photos of work experience activities, team building days etc
Off The Job Training requirement (OTJT)
Please refer to the explanation on our ‘apprenticeships and funding’ page which you can access by clicking on the button below: