Training provider Kaplan is launching two new higher level apprenticeships in tax (ATT) and audit (CFAB) in addition to its current accountancy (AAT) apprenticeships across Bristol.
The new apprenticeships will offer a defined, accredited route into professional services and will lead to a coveted Level 4 qualification, which is equal to a foundation stage higher education course, whilst earning a wage
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In the past five years, Kaplan, which has more than 70 years’ experience in accountancy training provision, has successfully trained over 3,200 young people in businesses across Bristol, and 120,000 nationally, in professional accountancy and tax based qualifications, including Apprenticeships.
Kaplan has become one of the largest providers of education in the financial sector; training approximately 80% of the country’s chartered accountants and helping them achieve their professional accountancy qualifications. Kaplan also supports employers to grow their business through offering funding for their new and existing staff to achieve an Accountancy, Tax or Audit Apprenticeship.
These professional services Apprenticeships come off the back of the launch of the Higher Level 4 Apprenticeship Fund by the Prime Minister in July 2011, which aims to support businesses to grow more effectively in the most relevant industry sectors, including Financial Services. Kaplan’s extended training offer to businesses and young people in Bristol will also help bridge the gap between vocational learning and higher education, helping young people find a cost-effective, work-based alternative route to becoming a qualified accountant
Employees in Bristol will be able to study towards a professional, accredited qualification, either Association of Taxation Technicians (accredited by the ATT) or Certificate in Finance, Accounting and Business (accredited by the ICAEW), whilst developing their skills in a working environment. These students will earn a Diploma in Tax or Audit Practice, choosing from a range of flexible and online training routes.
Head of the Kaplan’s Bristol training centre Robert Phillips said: “It is talented employees that make or break any business and every employer wants hard working and bright staff to drive the organisation forward. Higher Apprenticeships provide a unique opportunity for young people who are keen to achieve a recognised, advanced qualification accredited by the accountancy and tax professional bodies, with an education route that lets them learn in a working environment, earn a wage and embark on a successful career.
“Kaplan has over 70 years’ worth of experience in the accountancy and finance sectors, supporting both employers and individuals with their training and development. This experience will help to develop the high quality specialist employees that employers in the accountancy field need to ensure they prosper in the future.
“Apprenticeships can benefit any size business and Kaplan has a track record of success in helping to adapt Apprenticeship programmes to suit different organisations, as well as matching potential apprentice candidates to employers who wish to recruit.”
Kerry Hopper, Manager from Hollingdale Pooley, said: “Our apprentices are a very valuable asset to our business. As well as being costs effective, you are able to assist their development to suit the needs are organisation and I am confident they will succeed in key management roles within our firm in the future. With the increases in tuition fees, apprenticeships are a great way of continuing your education and earn money at the same time. Also with experience in the workplace being as important as ever apprenticeships provide an excellent blend of experience and continued educational development.”
