ICAEW Level 7 Apprenticeship: Accountancy Professional
Ideal for school leavers and entry-level finance professionals aiming to develop advanced accounting skills and experience.
Overview
The ICAEW Level 7 Apprenticeship: Accountancy Professional programme at Reed Business School is ideal for those who are ready to advance their career in accounting and finance, particularly those working toward senior roles.
It is designed to equip aspiring accountants with advanced technical knowledge, professional skills, and ethical behaviours required for leadership roles in the industry. Delivered through a blend of expert-led tuition, digital resources, and practical work experience, the programme prepares apprentices for the ACA qualification and a successful career in accountancy.
With tailored support, flexible study options, and real-world application, this apprenticeship is suited for finance professionals looking to gain highly respected qualifications while acquiring practical experience in the workplace.
The ICAEW Level 7 Apprenticeship: Accountancy Professional programme is ideal for:
Aspiring chartered accountants ready to advance their careers.
Recent graduates looking to specialise in finance and accounting.
Finance professionals seeking to deepen their expertise and qualifications.
Individuals transitioning into accountancy from other fields, eager to develop financial reporting, auditing, and strategic decision-making skills.
Accreditation: Approved by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), culminating in the prestigious ACA qualification.
Provider status: Delivered by a trusted provider listed on the government register of apprenticeship training providers.
Comprehensive curriculum: Encompasses advanced topics including financial management, corporate reporting, taxation, law, and professional ethics.
Innovative learning approach: A blend of expert-led tuition, practical workplace experience, and digital resources for flexible learning.
Dedicated support: Access to experienced tutors, one-on-one coaching, and a supportive network to guide you through every stage.
Professional Qualification: Achieve a recognised ICAEW Level 7 qualification.
Career Advancement: Gain the knowledge and skills necessary for career progression in the accounting field.
Practical Experience: Apply theoretical knowledge through hands-on work experience.
Flexibility: Structured to accommodate working professionals, ensuring a balance between study and work commitments.
Completing the ICAEW Level 7 Apprenticeship and achieving ACA qualification can lead to:
Roles such as chartered accountant, financial analyst, auditor, or finance manager.
Senior leadership positions, including finance director or chief financial officer (CFO).
Opportunities across diverse industries, from corporate finance to public practice.
Global career prospects with the highly regarded ACA credential.
As an ICAEW-approved learning partner, we have been providing world-class accountancy tuition since 1972.
The ICAEW Level 7 Apprenticeship: Accountancy Professional program at Reed Business School provides advanced training toward the prestigious ICAEW Chartered Accountant (ACA) qualification. As an ICAEW-approved learning partner since 1972, Reed Business School has a strong legacy of delivering world-class accountancy tuition, helping learners achieve consistently high pass rates above the national average. With a commitment to excellence, we go above and beyond ICAEW best practice benchmarks for institution and course management, delivery, and student support.
Reed Business School is listed on the Government Register of Apprenticeship Training Providers and is fully approved to deliver apprenticeship training. This means that we offer the ICAEW Level 7 apprenticeship, combining professional skills development with hands-on experience to equip apprentices with the expertise needed to excel in senior finance roles.
Delivery options
Flexible Delivery Options
With our wide range of delivery options, Reed Business School provides tailored support for each student’s needs, ensuring a productive and enriching learning experience for every stage of their accountancy career.
To accommodate different learning preferences, Reed Business School offers four delivery methods:
All the benefits of our Classroom delivery method and an immersive on-site learning experience in a unique, comfortable setting at our Cotswolds Manor.
Delivered at our iconic Manor, where you’ll get to know other learners, relax in our first-class accommodation and enjoy delicious homemade meals.
Ideal for learners wanting an immersive experience.
Unique learning environment: A picturesque location in the heart of the Cotswolds, ideal for focused study.
All-inclusive learning experience: Residential facilities and a relaxing, friendly atmosphere conducive to immersive study without distractions.
Engaging real-time learning: Small classroom-based sessions with peers and dedicated, experienced tutors who are subject specialists.
Structured delivery plan: In-class assignments, exam preparation, and a clear path to success.
Comprehensive resources: Study books, digital course materials, online resources, and access to recorded sessions for revision.
In-person and online tutor support: Receive expert guidance whenever needed.
Access to outstanding facilities: Benefit from state-of-the-art learning environments.
Networking opportunities: Connect with like-minded professionals and peers.
Traditional face-to-face classes with experienced tutors. If you like the idea of learning in person, where you bounce around ideas with other learners, then our face-to-face classes are for you. Classes take place every few months at one of our many UK venues.
Ideal for learners who prefer traditional classroom settings
Face-to-face interaction
Convenient locations across the UK
Evening and weekend classes available
Engaging in real-time learning experience
Structured delivery plan
Networking opportunities
In-person and online tutor support
Study books and online resources
Access to recorded sessions
In-class assignments and exam preparation
Our venues span London, Northampton, Birmingham, Newcastle, Cambridge, Little Compton, and many other locations. If you have a specific place in mind, reach out to us - we’d be happy to discuss options to suit your needs.
Get all the benefits of in-person learning, all from the comfort of your home. Great if you need a little more flexibility when it comes to location, but still want the opportunity to interact with other learners.
Ideal for learners who want the classroom experience from the comfort of their home
Live classroom sessions streamed online
Dynamic delivery and instant Q&A
Collaborative activities
Engaging real-time learning experience
Structured delivery plan
Networking opportunities (online)
Online tutor support
Study books and online resources
Access to recorded sessions
Online assignments and exam preparation
Flexible, live sessions accessible from any location.
Experience the flexibility of Live Online learning and engage in real-time, interactive sessions from anywhere. Achieve your goals without the commute!
Ideal for learners who want the flexibility to study from any location
Live interactive sessions online
Dynamic delivery and instant Q&A
Collaborative activities
Engaging real-time learning experience
Structured delivery plan
Networking opportunities (online)
Access to full tutor support (online)
Access to study books and online resources
Access to recorded sessions
Online assignments and exam preparation
What to expect during your apprenticeship
The ICAEW Level 7 Apprenticeship: Accountancy Professional is an advanced program combining rigorous academic study with practical, real-world experience. Here’s what’s involved:
Comprehensive training: Gain in-depth knowledge across core areas of accountancy, including audit, tax, financial reporting, and business strategy. This apprenticeship is designed to prepare you for a career as a Chartered Accountant.
On-the-job learning: As an apprenticeship, the programme integrates hands-on experience in the workplace, allowing you to apply what you learn in real time while developing key professional skills.
Exams & qualifications: The programme includes multiple stages of assessment leading to the prestigious ICAEW Chartered Accountant (ACA) qualification, recognised globally for excellence in accountancy.
Ethics & professional development: In addition to technical skills, you’ll complete modules on ethics and professional responsibility, essential for success as a trusted finance professional.
Flexible delivery options: Our program is offered in five delivery modes - Residential, Classroom, Online Classroom, and Live Online, allowing you to tailor your learning to your schedule and preferred style.
Upon completion, apprentices will be fully prepared for senior-level finance roles and eligible for ICAEW membership, opening doors to a range of rewarding career paths.
Please note: this course structure will change in September 2025. For more information, please contact our team
Certificate Level: Fundamentals of accountancy, finance, and business.
Accounting (AC)
Assurance (AS)
Business, Technology and Finance (BTF)
Law
Management Information (MI)
Principles of Taxation (PTX)
These modules will be examined via on-demand computer-based exams (e-assessments, 1.5 hours each). These exams can be taken at Reed Business School or at a local Pearson VUE centre. Learners will be permitted a maximum of four attempts at each module. These six modules are also available as part of the ICAEW Level 4 Accounting Technician Apprenticeship (CFAB)
Professional Level: Builds on fundamentals, testing technical knowledge in real-life scenarios.
Audit and Assurance (AA)
Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
Financial Management (FM)
Tax Compliance (TC)
Business Planning Taxation (BPT)
Business Strategy and Technology (BST) (Reed teaches to the FAR UK GAAP variant)
These exams will be set nationally and held at ICAEW appointed exam centres four times a year in March, June, September and December, Reed Business School mainly work towards the June and December sittings.
Advanced Level: Three papers to be taken in the final year of training.
Corporate Reporting (CR)
Strategic Business Management (SBM)
Case Study
CR and SBM are 3.5 hours each, whilst the case study is 4 hours. All exams are taken as computer-based exams using bespoke software developed by ICAEW. There are two sittings a year in July and November. The three papers can be sat together or separately. The Case Study must be the last exam attempted, and when a student has entered their final year of training.
The three core elements of the Apprenticeship: Skills, Knowledge and Behaviours
Skills
Throughout the apprenticeship, you’ll develop essential professional skills required for success in your role. These skills are assessed during the End Point Assessment and supported by online modules designed to meet specific criteria.
Progress is tracked using an online e-portfolio platform, including your ‘off-the-job’ training. Each apprentice is paired with a dedicated learning coach who meets quarterly with both the apprentice and their line manager to provide support and guidance.
Knowledge
You’ll gain the technical knowledge needed to pass your professional exams, mapped out in a personalised Training Plan tailored to your study needs and exemptions. The programme culminates in a Case Study exam, which forms part of your End Point Assessment.
Behaviours
The apprenticeship also focuses on developing professional behaviours essential for success. These are assessed during the End Point Assessment and supported by the same online modules and quarterly coaching sessions.
Ongoing evaluation
Your 20% off-the-job training will be evaluated throughout the programme, focusing on the development of your Skills, Knowledge, and Behaviours (SKBs).
Once you’ve completed the on-programme requirements, you’ll submit an End Point Assessment, which evaluates your combined Skills, Knowledge, and Behaviours.
Reed Business School is an approved Computer-Based Exam (CBE) centre, and all apprentices must register with ICAEW before starting.
Entry requirements
There are various pathways to begin your journey toward the ACA qualification. Completing AAT Level 4 or equivalent accountancy qualifications may grant exemptions for certain units, enabling faster progress through the program.
Before starting the ACA program, there are minimum entry requirements, but our team is here to guide you through them.
You’ll need to be employed and have your employer’s consent to enrol.
For more details on entry pathways, please view the ACA entry routes or enquire today to discuss your options with us.
Duration
The ICAEW Level 7 Apprenticeship: Accountancy Professional typically takes 36 to 48 months to complete, depending on prior qualifications and individual progress. This timeframe allows apprentices to build comprehensive technical knowledge, complete exams, and gain essential practical experience required for the ACA qualification.
Each apprentice progresses through the program at a pace suited to their learning and career needs, with ongoing support from experienced tutors.
Pricing & funding
ICAEW Level 7 Apprenticeship: Accountancy Professional - £21,000
For levy-paying employers, the apprenticeship will be funded through the digital Apprenticeship Service account.
Useful links
If you're currently a student or considering ICAEW with us, you'll find find all essential resources here, from course outlines to application forms.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact our support team. We're here to help ensure your success every step of the way. Remember to return your forms to rbs.reed@reedbusinessschool.co.uk.
Enquire today to discuss your apprenticeship needs and discover how our tailored programs can enhance skills, boost careers, and drive growth for both individuals and businesses.
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