Accounts/Finance Assistant apprenticeship

On Course South West.

Plymouth (PL4 6LF)

Closes on Monday 6 October 2025

Posted on 19 August 2025

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Contents

Summary

Our Level 2 AAT Apprenticeship is a hands-on role that provides practical experience in accounting and finance, alongside study towards a nationally recognised qualification. You'll gain valuable skills in bookkeeping, financial administration, and working with accounting software. If you're organised, eager to learn this could be the role for you.

Wage

£11,778 for your first year, then could increase depending on your age

National Minimum Wage rate for apprentices

Check minimum wage rates (opens in new tab)

Training course
Accounts or finance assistant (level 2)
Hours
Monday to Friday, between the hours of 8:30am and 5:30pm (to be discussed at interview).

30 hours a week

Start date

Friday 28 November 2025

Duration

1 year 3 months

Positions available

1

Work

Most of your apprenticeship is spent working. You’ll learn on the job by getting hands-on experience.

What you'll do at work

As an Accounts/Finance Assistant apprentice, you will play a key role in supporting the finance team with day-to-day financial operations. Your tasks may include:

  • Processing and recording financial transactions, such as invoices, purchase orders, and receipts
  • Assisting with bank reconciliations and ensuring records are accurate and up to date
  • Supporting the preparation of monthly financial reports and spreadsheets
  • Managing and maintaining organised financial filing systems, both digital and paper-based
  • Communicating with suppliers and customers to resolve invoice or payment queries
  • Assisting with VAT returns and other regulatory compliance tasks under supervision
  • Inputting data into accounting software and updating internal financial systems
  • Supporting the wider finance team with ad hoc administrative tasks as required

This role offers a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience while developing essential skills in a busy finance environment.

Where you'll work

On Course South West
Hyde Park House
Mutley Plain
Plymouth
PL4 6LF

Training

Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.

Training provider

PLYMOUTH CITY COUNCIL

Training course

Accounts or finance assistant (level 2)

Understanding apprenticeship levels (opens in new tab)

What you'll learn

Course contents
  • Record transactional data.
  • Use the organisation’s standard tools and processes to examine data to identify transactional issues such as, reconciliations and inconsistencies between invoices.
  • Recognise and rectify routine errors, escalating as necessary.
  • Plan and review accounting and finance tasks.
  • Communicate with stakeholders to deliver accurate and timely results, avoiding jargon, using language tailored to the audience and different media methods with an appreciation of the risks and benefits to the business of social media and other digital applications.
  • Use finance and accounting software packages to accurately input and manage data to contribute to routine accounting tasks.
  • Handle data and digital technology in line with cyber and data security requirements, using data securely and safely, including backing up data.
  • Record transactional data.
  • Use the organisation’s standard tools and processes to examine data to identify transactional issues such as, reconciliations and inconsistencies between invoices.
  • Recognise and rectify routine errors, escalating as necessary.
  • Plan and review accounting and finance tasks.
  • Communicate with stakeholders to deliver accurate and timely results, avoiding jargon, using language tailored to the audience and different media methods with an appreciation of the risks and benefits to the business of social media and other digital applications.
  • Use finance and accounting software packages to accurately input and manage data to contribute to routine accounting tasks.
  • Handle data and digital technology in line with cyber and data security requirements, using data securely and safely, including backing up data.

Training schedule

The apprentice will receive a combination of on-the-job training and structured learning to support their development. Training will be delivered both in the workplace and through a recognised training provider.

  • Off-the-job training will take place either remotely or at On Course South West.
  • The remaining time will be spent working within the finance team, applying skills in a real business environment
  • The apprentice will follow a structured training plan covering key topics such as bookkeeping, financial documentation, and use of accounting software
  • Regular reviews will take place between the employer, apprentice, and OCSW to ensure progress and support is aligned

This blended approach ensures the apprentice gains both practical experience and theoretical knowledge to successfully complete the Level 2 AAT qualification.

Requirements

Essential qualifications

GCSE in:

  • English (grade 4-9 (A*-C))
  • Math (grade 4-9 (A*-C))

Share if you have other relevant qualifications and industry experience. The apprenticeship can be adjusted to reflect what you already know.

Skills

  • Communication skills
  • IT skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Organisation skills
  • Customer care skills
  • Problem solving skills
  • Presentation skills
  • Administrative skills
  • Number skills
  • Analytical skills
  • Logical
  • Team working
  • Creative
  • Initiative
  • Non judgemental
  • Patience

About this employer

On Course South West is a well-established training provider dedicated to delivering high-quality education and skills development across Plymouth and the surrounding areas. With a strong focus on adult education, apprenticeships, and community learning, the organisation works closely with local employers to support workforce development and individual career progression. Known for its supportive and inclusive learning environment, On Course South West offers a wide range of programmes tailored to meet the needs of learners and businesses alike. The team is committed to helping apprentices gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to succeed in their chosen career paths.

After this apprenticeship

Upon successful completion of the Accounts/Finance Assistant apprenticeship, the apprentice may progress to the Level 3 AAT Advanced Diploma in Accounting, further developing their skills and knowledge.

With continued study and experience, there are opportunities to pursue roles such as:

  • Assistant Accountant
  • Finance Officer
  • Payroll Administrator
  • Bookkeeper

In the longer term, apprentices can work towards full AAT membership (MAAT) or continue onto chartered accountancy qualifications such as ACCA, CIMA, or ICAEW, opening doors to senior finance positions such as Management Accountant or Finance Manager.

This apprenticeship provides a strong foundation for a successful career in accountancy and finance.

Ask a question

The contact for this apprenticeship is:

PLYMOUTH CITY COUNCIL

Tim Scott-Lloyd

tim.scott-lloyd@plymouth.gov.uk

The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC1000337082.

Apply now

Closes on Monday 6 October 2025

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