Maintaining an efficient and accurate finance function within a business.
This occupation is found in organisations of all sizes whether small, medium, large or global.
They may work in the accounts or finance department of a company, a solo owned business or partnership. In the public sector they may work in settings such as local government, hospitals, schools and colleges. They may work within a firm of accountants providing services to a range of clients.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to carry out accounting and finance tasks. These tasks support the creation of items such as financial statements and other data. Their work is carried out under supervision following set procedures for most tasks. Such tasks may include financial data entry, reconciling figures, trial balances, double-entry bookkeeping, handling accounts payable and receivable.
An accounts or finance assistant is an integral part of the team responsible for maintaining an efficient and accurate finance function within an organisation.
The accounts or finance assistant is responsible for assisting accountants with routine duties. These can vary depending on the team structure and size of business. They use digital finance and accounting systems and tools to collate and enter data. An accounts or finance assistant’s work would include tasks such as financial and accounting data entry and basic bookkeeping duties. They will also work with sales or purchase ledgers. They will run calculations to ensure that records and payments are correct and may be involved in the recording of cash transactions.
In their daily work, an accounts of finance assistant interacts with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders. This could include junior colleagues, supervisors, senior managers, clients and customers, suppliers, lenders and government agencies.
An accounts or finance assistant will gather and input financial data and check that work for errors. They work under supervision to contribute towards the creation of accurate financial statements and data to help the organisation run effectively.
This is a summary of the key things that you – the apprentice and your employer need to know about your end-point assessment (EPA). You and your employer should read the EPA plan for the full details. It has information on assessment method requirements, roles and responsibilities, and re-sits and re-takes.
An EPA is an assessment at the end of your apprenticeship. It will assess you against the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) in the occupational standard. Your training will cover the KSBs. The EPA is your opportunity to show an independent assessor how well you can carry out the occupation you have been trained for.
Your employer will choose an end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) to deliver the EPA. Your employer and training provider should tell you what to expect and how to prepare for your EPA.
The length of the training for this apprenticeship is typically 12 months. The EPA period is typically 3 months.
The overall grades available for this apprenticeship are:
The EPA gateway is when the EPAO checks and confirms that you have met any requirements required before you start the EPA. You will only enter the gateway when your employer says you are ready.
The gateway requirements for your EPA are:
For the accounts or finance assistant, the qualification required is:
AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting
Institute of Certified Bookkeepers Certificate in Bookkeeping
Institute of Accountants and Bookkeepers Level 2 Certificate in Accounting and Business
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
You will have a professional discussion with an independent assessor. It will last 1 minutes. They will ask you at least 1 questions. The questions will be about certain aspects of your occupation. You can use it to help answer the questions.
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
You will have an interview with an independent assessor. It will last at least 60 minutes. They will ask you at least 6 questions. The questions will be about certain aspects of your occupation. You can use it to help answer the questions.
You should speak to your employer if you have a query that relates to your job.
You should speak to your training provider if you have any questions about your training or EPA before it starts.
You should receive detailed information and support from the EPAO before the EPA starts. You should speak to them if you have any questions about your EPA once it has started.Reasonable adjustments
If you have a disability, a physical or mental health condition or other special considerations, you may be able to have a reasonable adjustment that takes this into account. You should speak to your employer, training provider and EPAO and ask them what support you can get. The EPAO will decide if an adjustment is appropriate.
This apprenticeship aligns with Institute of Certified Bookkeepers for Associate AICB
Please contact the professional body for more details.
This apprenticeship aligns with Institute of Accountants and Bookkeepers for Associate AIAB
Please contact the professional body for more details.
This occupation is found in organisations of all sizes whether small, medium, large or global.
They may work in the accounts or finance department of a company, a solo owned business or partnership. In the public sector they may work in settings such as local government, hospitals, schools and colleges. They may work within a firm of accountants providing services to a range of clients.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to carry out accounting and finance tasks. These tasks support the creation of items such as financial statements and other data. Their work is carried out under supervision following set procedures for most tasks. Such tasks may include financial data entry, reconciling figures, trial balances, double-entry bookkeeping, handling accounts payable and receivable.
An accounts or finance assistant is an integral part of the team responsible for maintaining an efficient and accurate finance function within an organisation.
The accounts or finance assistant is responsible for assisting accountants with routine duties. These can vary depending on the team structure and size of business. They use digital finance and accounting systems and tools to collate and enter data. An accounts or finance assistant’s work would include tasks such as financial and accounting data entry and basic bookkeeping duties. They will also work with sales or purchase ledgers. They will run calculations to ensure that records and payments are correct and may be involved in the recording of cash transactions.
In their daily work, an accounts of finance assistant interacts with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders. This could include junior colleagues, supervisors, senior managers, clients and customers, suppliers, lenders and government agencies.
An accounts or finance assistant will gather and input financial data and check that work for errors. They work under supervision to contribute towards the creation of accurate financial statements and data to help the organisation run effectively.
| Duty | KSBs |
|---|---|
|
Duty 1 Be aware of the organisation's needs and activities and their impact for accounting and finance. |
|
|
Duty 2 Identify, collate and process financial and accounting data from primary sources such as business records. |
|
|
Duty 3 Examine financial and accounting data to identify issues with quality and reliability as instructed and in accordance with guidance. |
|
|
Duty 4 Rectify errors in financial and accounting data, escalating problems beyond their remit as appropriate. |
|
|
Duty 5 Reconcile transactional data to minimise the chance of errors in financial and accounting outputs such as sales and purchase invoices, sale and purchase orders, bank statements and payroll. |
|
|
Duty 6 Plan and review workloads with supervisor to ensure best use of time to complete allocated tasks efficiently. |
|
|
Duty 7 Communicate with internal and external stakeholders using appropriate methods and professional language. Examples may include letters, ‘phone, face-to-face, e-mail, video call, online chat functions etc. |
|
|
Duty 8 Use financial and accounting software packages to input and manage data safely and securely in line with organisational instructions. |
|
|
Duty 9 Provide support to team members to help ensure that financial and accounting activities are carried out within expected timescales and quality expectations. |
|
|
Duty 10 Keep up to date with developments to enhance relevant skills and take responsibility for own professional development. |
K1 K2 K4 K6 K7 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16
|
K1: Principles of English law that may have an impact when working in accountancy, including elements of contract law, employment law, company law, data protection and anti-money laundering regulations.
Back to Duty
K2: Foundations of professional ethics and codes of conduct in a finance and accounting environment.
Back to Duty
K3: The different types of legal entity and organisational structures and their relevance for financial and accounting activities.
Back to Duty
K4: Digital financial and accounting packages and applications including databases and spreadsheets.
Back to Duty
K5: The role of accounts and finance within an organisation including interaction with internal and external stakeholders.
Back to Duty
K6: Principles of using and maintaining financial records including accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash management and payroll.
Back to Duty
K7: Fundamental concepts of the commercial landscape and its impact on the organisation.
Back to Duty
K8: Principles of bookkeeping and controls.
Back to Duty
K9: Principles of cost recording systems within an organisation.
Back to Duty
K10: The differences between financial and management accounting.
Back to Duty
K11: Principles of corporate social responsibility (CSR), ethics and sustainability regarding finance and accounting.
Back to Duty
K12: Principles of cyber-security and working safely online within a finance and accounting context.
Back to Duty
K13: Principles of data handling including the significance of dates and the timing of transactions such as dates of invoice and payment
Back to Duty
K14: Principles of data security and legislative requirements regarding data handling in a financial and accounting context.
Back to Duty
K15: Approaches to diversity, inclusion and cultural awareness and their impact on finance and accountancy activities.
Back to Duty
K16: The impact of sustainability and environmental good practice on accounting and finance activities.
Back to Duty
S1: Record transactional data.
Back to Duty
S2: Use the organisation’s standard tools and processes to examine data to identify transactional issues such as, reconciliations and inconsistencies between invoices.
Back to Duty
S3: Recognise and rectify routine errors, escalating as necessary.
Back to Duty
S4: Plan and review accounting and finance tasks.
Back to Duty
S5: 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.
Back to Duty
S6: Use finance and accounting software packages to accurately input and manage data to contribute to routine accounting tasks.
Back to Duty
S7: Handle data and digital technology in line with cyber and data security requirements, using data securely and safely, including backing up data.
Back to Duty
B1: Team working to provide support and collaborate with others to help achieve the goals of the organisation.
Back to Duty
B2: Flexible and responds constructively to changing work requirements.
Back to Duty
B3: Self-motivated to seek and act upon feedback, displaying commitment to personal and professional development.
Back to Duty
B4: Vigilant in their approach to accounting and finance tasks, paying close attention to detail and aware of the consequences of errors.
Back to Duty
B5: Professional in their approach to their work and others to meet the requirements of professional ethics and codes of conduct.
Back to Duty
B6: Focussed on the importance of delivering excellent service, identifying, meeting or exceeding stakeholder expectations.
Back to Duty
B7: Takes responsibility for sustainable outcomes in their actions and approaches to the role, performing duties respecting environmental good practice, specific to both the occupation and those recognised externally.
Back to Duty
B8: Committed to personal wellbeing and an awareness of the support and resources available to help them.
Back to Duty
English and maths qualifications form a mandatory part of all apprenticeships and must be completed before an apprentice can pass through gateway. The requirements are detailed in the current version of the apprenticeship funding rules.
Level: 2
Ofqual regulated
255 GLH (Ofqual total qualification time (340)
Level: 2
see data sent via email to Product CoP 17 October 2023
Level: 2
Attainment of this qualification will enable the apprentice to apply for associate membership (AIAB). This is a new qualification created from existing IAB modules to meet the needs of this apprenticeship.
This standard aligns with the following professional recognition:
V1.4
This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the accounts or finance assistant apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.
This apprenticeship has integrated qualifications which are used for EPA purposes.
The awarding body (AB) is accountable for the integrated assessment methods. The end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) must take responsibility for the interview. EPAOs and ABs must work collaboratively to manage the delivery of the EPA.
Accounts or finance assistant apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.
A full-time accounts or finance assistant apprentice typically spends 12 months on-programme. The apprentice must spend at least 12 months on-programme and complete the required amount of off-the-job training in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.
The EPA should be completed within an EPA period lasting typically 3 months.
The apprentice must complete their training and meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA. The EPA will assess occupational competence.
An approved EPAO must conduct the EPA for this apprenticeship. Employers must work with the training provider to select an approved EPAO from the apprenticeship providers and assessment register (APAR).
This EPA has 2 assessment methods.
The grades available for each assessment method are below.
Assessment method 1 - knowledge test - integrated:
Assessment method 2 - interview:
The result from each assessment method is combined to decide the overall apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the apprenticeship:
|
On-programme - typically 12 months
|
The apprentice must:
The qualification required is one of the following: AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting Institute of Certified Bookkeepers Certificate in Bookkeeping Institute of Accountants and Bookkeepers Level 2 Certificate in Accounting and Business
|
|---|---|
|
End-point assessment gateway
|
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. The apprentice must:
AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting - Introduction to Bookkeeping - Principles of Bookkeeping Controls - Principles of Costing but not - The Business Environment which is to be tested as part of this EPA. or Institute of Certified Bookkeepers Certificate in Bookkeeping - A1 Basic double entry bookkeeping to trial balance - A3 Data entry to trial balance using software but not - A2 Further double entry bookkeeping to trial balance which is to be tested as part of this EPA. or Institute for Accountants and Bookkeepers Level 2 Certificate in Accounting and Business - Accounting and Finance in Organisations - Using Digital Technology but not - Communication in Accounting and - Professionalism and Ethics in Finance which are both to be tested as part of this EPA
Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO, along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO. |
|
End-point assessment - typically 3 months
|
The grades available for each assessment method are below
Knowledge test - integrated:
Interview:
Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:
|
|
Professional recognition
|
This apprenticeship aligns with:
This apprenticeship aligns with:
|
The EPA is taken in the EPA period. The EPA period starts when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements have been met and is typically 3 months.
The EPAO should confirm the gateway requirements have been met and start the EPA as quickly as possible.
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. That is, they are deemed to be working at or above the level set out in the apprenticeship standard and ready to undertake the EPA. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider, but the employer must make the decision. The apprentice will then enter the gateway.
The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.
They must:
AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting relevant on programme modules are as follows:
- Introduction to Bookkeeping
- Principles of Bookkeeping Controls
- Principles of Costing
but not
- The Business Environment which is to be tested as part of this EPA.
or
Institute of Certified Bookkeepers Certificate in Bookkeeping relevant on programme modules are as follows:
- A1 Basic double entry bookkeeping to trial balance
- A3 Data entry to trial balance using software
but not
- A2 Further double entry bookkeeping to trial balance which is to be tested as part of this EPA
or
Institute for Accountants and Bookkeepers Certificate in Accounting and Business relevant on programme modules are:
- Accounting and Finance in Organisations
- Using Digital Technology
but not
- Professionalism and Ethics in Finance module and Communication in Accounting module which is to be tested as part of this EPA
The apprentice must submit the gateway evidence to their EPAO, including any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO.
The assessment methods must be delivered in the following order:
The integrated assessment method must be delivered after non-integrated assessment methods have been attempted.
This is an integrated assessment method. The integrated assessment method forms part of the apprenticeship's EPA as well as the awarding of the qualification.
The KSBs aligned to the integrated assessment method will be assessed and graded by the awarding body and contribute to the overall outcome of the apprenticeship and the qualification.
The KSBs aligned to this assessment method will be assessed by the apprentice passing one of the qualifications listed below.
The integrated qualifications are:
• AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting
- The Business Environment module will be tested as part of this EPA
• Institute of Certified Bookkeepers Certificate in Bookkeeping
- (A2) Further double entry bookkeeping to trial balance module will be tested as part of this EPA
Institute of Accountants and Bookkeepers Level 2 Certificate in Accounting and Business
- Professionalism and Ethics in Finance module and Communication in Finance module will be tested as part of this EPA
In the knowledge test - integrated, the apprentice answers questions in a controlled and invigilated environment. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge and skills mapped to this assessment method.
This assessment method is being used because it:
The delivery of the knowledge test - integrated must align with the conditions set out by the awarding body for the integrated qualification. The test can be computer or paper based.
The apprentice must be given at least 14 days notice of the date and time of the test.
The test must be taken in the presence of an invigilator who is the responsibility of the AB or their delegated person or organisation. Invigilation can be conducted remotely where there is technology in place to support this and prevent malpractice
The AB must have an invigilation policy setting out how the test must be conducted. It must state the ratio of apprentices to invigilators for the setting and allow the test to take place in a secure way.
The AB is responsible for the security of the test including the arrangements for on-line testing. The AB must ensure their security arrangements maintain the validity and reliability of the test.
The responsibility for the marking of the test is with the AB. They must produce a marking scheme to be followed. Marking by computer is allowed where question types support this.
The AB is responsible for overseeing the marking, standardisation and moderation of the test.
The apprentice must take the test in a suitably controlled and invigilated environment that is a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
The AB or their delegated person or organisation must select and check the venue is suitable.
The test could take place remotely if the appropriate technology and systems are in place to prevent malpractice.
The AB must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers or subject matter experts for this occupation. The AB must maintain the security and confidentiality of test materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The AB must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The AB must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The AB must produce the following materials to support the test:
The AB must ensure that the materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
In the interview, an independent assessor asks the apprentice questions. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
This assessment method is being used because:
The interview must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the interview.
The purpose is to assess the apprentice’s competence against the following themes:
The EPAO must give an apprentice 7 days' notice of the interview.
The interview must last for 60 minutes. The independent assessor can increase the time of the interview by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to respond to a question if necessary.
The independent assessor must ask at least 6 questions. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in line with the EPAO’s training. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The interview must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO for example, the training provider's, EPAO’s or employer’s premises.
The interview should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the interview:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
|
Theme
KSBs
|
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
|
|---|---|
|
Accounting and finance in organisations
K1 K3 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K11 K12 K14 S1 S2 S3 B4 |
The apprentice will be assessed in line with the conditions set by the awarding organisation. In order to pass, the apprentice must achieve the requirements of the pass criteria of the integrated qualification. Awarding bodies must make clear in their marking criteria which grade boundary for the integrated assessment method represents a pass grade for the EPA.
|
|
Theme
KSBs
|
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors.
|
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors.
|
|---|---|---|
|
Professionalism and ethics
K2 K10 K13 K15 K16 S4 B1 B2 B3 B5 B7 B8 |
Describes how their approach to work within the finance and accounting environment meets the requirements of professional ethics and codes of conduct (K2,B5) Explains how they have planned and reviewed accounting and finance tasks, taking into consideration the differences between financial and management accounting (K10, S4) Outlines the principles of data handling and the significance to this of dates and the timings of transactions. (K13) Explains how they have worked collaboratively within a team on finance and accounting activities to help achieve the goals of the organisation, applying different approaches to diversity, inclusion and cultural awareness and considering the impact this has on outcomes. (K15, B1)
Describes how they have worked flexibly and responded to changing work requirements.( B2) Explains how they have been sought out and acted upon feedback to develop themselves personally and professionally. (B3) Outlines their role and the actions they take to improve sustainability and reduce the environmental impact of activities in finance and accounting. (K16, B7)
Explains their approach to maintaining their own personal wellbeing and the support and resources available to help support them. (B8) |
None |
|
Communication
S5 B6 |
Outlines how they avoid jargon and tailor language to meet or exceed expectations when delivering accurate and timely results to stakeholders and take into account the risks and benefits of using their chosen social media or digital application to do this. (S5, B6) |
Compares and contrasts how they 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. (S5) |
|
Digital technology in accounting and finance
K4 S6 S7 |
Describes how they use finance and accounting software packages to accurately input and manage data to contribute to routine accounting tasks whilst handling data and digital technology in line with cyber and data security requirements, using data securely and safely, including backing up data. (K4, S6, S7)
|
Outlines the impact on stakeholders of not following cyber and data security requirements when using finance and accounting software packages to handle data and information for routine accounting tasks. (K4, S6, S7) |
Performance in the EPA determines the overall grade of:
An independent assessor must grade the interview in line with this EPA plan.
The EPAO must combine the individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they will be awarded an overall fail.
Awarding bodies should make clear in their marking criteria which grade boundary for the integrated assessment method represents a pass, merit and distinction grade for the EPA. This grade must reflect demonstration of occupational competence in the KSBs.
To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice must achieve at least a pass in both assessment methods. To achieve an overall EPA ‘distinction,’ the apprentice must achieve a pass in the test and a distinction in the interview.
Grades from individual assessment methods must be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA overall.
| Knowledge test - integrated | Interview | Overall Grading |
|---|---|---|
| Fail | Any grade | Fail |
| Any grade | Fail | Fail |
| Pass | Pass | Pass |
| Pass | Distinction | Distinction |
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they can take a re-sit or a re-take at their employer’s discretion. The apprentice’s employer needs to agree that a re-sit or re-take is appropriate. A re-sit does not need further learning, whereas a re-take does. The apprentice should have a supportive action plan to prepare for a re-sit or a re-take.
The employer and the EPAO should agree the timescale for a re-sit or re-take. A re-sit is typically taken within 1 month of the EPA outcome notification. The timescale for a re-take is dependent on how much re-training is required and is typically taken within 2 months of the EPA outcome notification.
Non-integrated assessment methods must be attempted before the integrated assessment method is attempted. The re-sit or re-take opportunities for the integrated assessment method must fall within the typical EPA period timeframes. This is to ensure that apprentices are not disadvantaged by the assessment of qualifications being available within an assessment window occurring once a year.
Failed assessment methods must be re-sat or re-taken within a 6-month period from the EPA outcome notification, otherwise the entire EPA will need to be re-sat or re-taken in full.
Re-sits and re-takes are not offered to an apprentice wishing to move from pass to a higher grade.
The apprentice will get a maximum EPA grade of if distinction they need to re-sit or re-take one or more assessment methods, unless the EPAO determines there are exceptional circumstances.
| Roles | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
Apprentice |
As a minimum, the apprentice should:
|
|
Employer |
As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:
|
|
EPAO |
As a minimum, the EPAO must:
|
|
Independent assessor |
As a minimum, an independent assessor must:
|
|
Training provider |
As a minimum, the training provider must:
|
|
Awarding Body |
As a minimum, the awarding body must: • conform to the requirements of this EPA plan and deliver its requirements in a timely manner. • conform to the requirements of any regulators for the mandated qualification. • understand the apprenticeship including the occupational standard, EPA plan and funding. • confirm that they agree to the conditions of integration for the integrated assessment method, as outlined in the EPA plan. • make all necessary contractual arrangements. • have third party arrangements in place with the EPAO to: o work collaboratively to manage the delivery of the EPA. o ensure the EPA is arranged to meet the scheduling requirements set out in this EPA plan o share the outcomes of the integrated assessment method in a timely manner. • develop and produce assessment materials including specifications and marking materials (for example mark schemes, practice materials, training material) for the integrated assessment method • maintain and apply a policy for the declaration and management of conflict of interests and independence relating to the EPA of an apprentice (including by way of moderation). This may be directly or through delegated parties. • have quality assurance systems and procedures that ensure fair, reliable, and consistent assessment and maintain records of internal quality assurance (IQA) activity. • source a suitably qualified and independent person who must administer all aspects of the integrated assessment method. This means that they must not: o be connected to the apprentice. o have been involved in the management or training of the apprentice. o have a vested interest in the outcome. Where this is not possible, by exception, a person who has delivered the assessed content may administer the assessment. This is providing they are not the sole administrator. • source a suitably qualified and independent person who must grade all aspects of the integrated assessment method. This may be directly or through delegated parties. • The person making the grading judgement must not be employed by: o the same organisation as the apprentice o the apprentice’s training provider. This means that the integrated assessment method must be marked by either: o the awarding body, o an independent person appointed by the awarding body, or an independent assessor sourced by, or from, the EPAO, o or a combination of the above. In rare circumstances, training provider staff may mark the integrated assessment method. Strict arrangements must be in place for monitoring, moderation and quality assurance. • develop and produce assessment materials including specifications and marking materials (for example mark schemes, practice materials, training material) for the integrated assessment methods. • deliver induction, initial and on-going training for all their independent assessors and any other roles involved in the administration or grading of the integrated assessment method of the EPA as specified within this EPA plan. This should include how to record the rationale and evidence for grading decisions where required. This may be done through related parties such as delivery centres. • provide information, advice, and guidance documentation to enable apprentices, employers and training providers to prepare for the integrated assessment method. • arrange for the integrated assessment methods of the EPA to take place in a timely manner, in consultation with the employer. This may be done through related parties such as delivery centres • maintain the security of the integrated assessment method including, but not limited to, verifying the identity of the apprentice, invigilation and security of materials. This may be done through related parties such as delivery centres. • must externally set and externally mark the integrated assessment method. This may be done through related parties such as delivery centres. • maintain and apply a policy for reasonable adjustment and special considerations for apprentices. • deliver the integrated assessment method in line with this EPA plan. • conduct moderation of all their independent assessors’ decisions for integrated assessment methods. This may be done through related parties such as delivery centres. • monitor the performance of all their independent assessors and provide re-training where necessary. This may be done through related parties such as delivery centres. • an auditable process is in place for providing assessment decisions and feedback to all relevant stakeholders. • maintain and apply a policy for conducting appeals. • continue to follow the rules and regulations applicable to the qualification, for example, those of Ofqual and industry regulators. • must give IfATE at least 6 months’ notice of any changes to mandated qualifications such as content, duration, and level. |
The EPAO and AB must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Adjustments must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Special considerations
The EPAO and AB must have special consideration arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Special considerations must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Internal quality assurance refers to the strategies, policies and procedures that an EPAO must have in place to ensure valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions.
EPAOs for this EPA must adhere to the requirements within the roles and responsibilities table.
They must also appoint independent assessors who:
Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:
This apprenticeship aligns with:
This apprenticeship aligns with:
| Knowledge | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
K1
Principles of English law that may have an impact when working in accountancy, including elements of contract law, employment law, company law, data protection and anti-money laundering regulations. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K2
Foundations of professional ethics and codes of conduct in a finance and accounting environment. Back to Grading |
Interview |
|
K3
The different types of legal entity and organisational structures and their relevance for financial and accounting activities. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K4
Digital financial and accounting packages and applications including databases and spreadsheets. Back to Grading |
Interview |
|
K5
The role of accounts and finance within an organisation including interaction with internal and external stakeholders. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K6
Principles of using and maintaining financial records including accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash management and payroll. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K7
Fundamental concepts of the commercial landscape and its impact on the organisation. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K8
Principles of bookkeeping and controls. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K9
Principles of cost recording systems within an organisation. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K10
The differences between financial and management accounting. Back to Grading |
Interview |
|
K11
Principles of corporate social responsibility (CSR), ethics and sustainability regarding finance and accounting. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K12
Principles of cyber-security and working safely online within a finance and accounting context. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K13
Principles of data handling including the significance of dates and the timing of transactions such as dates of invoice and payment Back to Grading |
Interview |
|
K14
Principles of data security and legislative requirements regarding data handling in a financial and accounting context. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K15
Approaches to diversity, inclusion and cultural awareness and their impact on finance and accountancy activities. Back to Grading |
Interview |
|
K16
The impact of sustainability and environmental good practice on accounting and finance activities. Back to Grading |
Interview |
| Skill | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
S1
Record transactional data. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
S2
Use the organisation’s standard tools and processes to examine data to identify transactional issues such as, reconciliations and inconsistencies between invoices. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
S3
Recognise and rectify routine errors, escalating as necessary. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
S4
Plan and review accounting and finance tasks. Back to Grading |
Interview |
|
S5
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. Back to Grading |
Interview |
|
S6
Use finance and accounting software packages to accurately input and manage data to contribute to routine accounting tasks. Back to Grading |
Interview |
|
S7
Handle data and digital technology in line with cyber and data security requirements, using data securely and safely, including backing up data. Back to Grading |
Interview |
| Behaviour | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
B1
Team working to provide support and collaborate with others to help achieve the goals of the organisation. Back to Grading |
Interview |
|
B2
Flexible and responds constructively to changing work requirements. Back to Grading |
Interview |
|
B3
Self-motivated to seek and act upon feedback, displaying commitment to personal and professional development. Back to Grading |
Interview |
|
B4
Vigilant in their approach to accounting and finance tasks, paying close attention to detail and aware of the consequences of errors. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
B5
Professional in their approach to their work and others to meet the requirements of professional ethics and codes of conduct. Back to Grading |
Interview |
|
B6
Focussed on the importance of delivering excellent service, identifying, meeting or exceeding stakeholder expectations. Back to Grading |
Interview |
|
B7
Takes responsibility for sustainable outcomes in their actions and approaches to the role, performing duties respecting environmental good practice, specific to both the occupation and those recognised externally. Back to Grading |
Interview |
|
B8
Committed to personal wellbeing and an awareness of the support and resources available to help them. Back to Grading |
Interview |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Accounting and finance in organisations
K1 K3 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K11 K12 K14 S1 S2 S3 B4 |
Principles of English law that may have an impact when working in accountancy, including elements of contract law, employment law, company law, data protection and anti-money laundering regulations. (K1) The different types of legal entity and organisational structures and their relevance for financial and accounting activities. (K3) The role of accounts and finance within an organisation including interaction with internal and external stakeholders. (K5) Principles of using and maintaining financial records including accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash management and payroll. (K6) Fundamental concepts of the commercial landscape and its impact on the organisation. (K7) Principles of bookkeeping and controls. (K8) Principles of cost recording systems within an organisation. (K9) Principles of corporate social responsibility (CSR), ethics and sustainability regarding finance and accounting. (K11) Principles of cyber-security and working safely online within a finance and accounting context. (K12) Principles of data security and legislative requirements regarding data handling in a financial and accounting context. (K14) |
Record transactional data. (S1) Use the organisation’s standard tools and processes to examine data to identify transactional issues such as, reconciliations and inconsistencies between invoices. (S2) Recognise and rectify routine errors, escalating as necessary. (S3) |
Vigilant in their approach to accounting and finance tasks, paying close attention to detail and aware of the consequences of errors. (B4) |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Professionalism and ethics
K2 K10 K13 K15 K16 S4 B1 B2 B3 B5 B7 B8 |
Foundations of professional ethics and codes of conduct in a finance and accounting environment. (K2) The differences between financial and management accounting. (K10) Principles of data handling including the significance of dates and the timing of transactions such as dates of invoice and payment (K13) Approaches to diversity, inclusion and cultural awareness and their impact on finance and accountancy activities. (K15) The impact of sustainability and environmental good practice on accounting and finance activities. (K16) |
Plan and review accounting and finance tasks. (S4) |
Team working to provide support and collaborate with others to help achieve the goals of the organisation. (B1) Flexible and responds constructively to changing work requirements. (B2) Self-motivated to seek and act upon feedback, displaying commitment to personal and professional development. (B3) Professional in their approach to their work and others to meet the requirements of professional ethics and codes of conduct. (B5) Takes responsibility for sustainable outcomes in their actions and approaches to the role, performing duties respecting environmental good practice, specific to both the occupation and those recognised externally. (B7) Committed to personal wellbeing and an awareness of the support and resources available to help them. (B8) |
|
Communication
S5 B6 |
None |
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. (S5) |
Focussed on the importance of delivering excellent service, identifying, meeting or exceeding stakeholder expectations. (B6) |
|
Digital technology in accounting and finance
K4 S6 S7 |
Digital financial and accounting packages and applications including databases and spreadsheets. (K4) |
Use finance and accounting software packages to accurately input and manage data to contribute to routine accounting tasks. (S6) Handle data and digital technology in line with cyber and data security requirements, using data securely and safely, including backing up data. (S7) |
None |
| Version | Change detail | Earliest start date | Latest start date | Latest end date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4 | Occupational standard, end-point assessment plan and funding band revised | 01/07/2024 | Not set | Not set |
| 1.3 | End-point assessment plan revised | 23/06/2023 | 30/06/2024 | Not set |
| 1.2 | End-point assessment plan revised | 17/02/2023 | 22/06/2023 | Not set |
| 1.1 | End-point assessment plan and standard revised | 26/07/2022 | 16/02/2023 | Not set |
| 1.0 | Approved for delivery | 19/07/2019 | 25/07/2022 | Not set |
Crown copyright © 2024. You may re-use this information (not including logos) free of charge in any format or medium, under the terms of the Open Government Licence. Visit www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence