ACA Overview

Studying towards a professional qualification alongside a demanding job is always going to present challenges, but for those that persevere, the rewards are undoubtedly worth it.

The ACA qualification from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales is valued by businesses worldwide, with 153,000 members and more than 28,000 students.

SAS have been an ICAEW Approved Training Employer since 2015 and we encourage all our trainees to undertake the qualification.

The title ‘Chartered Accountant’ can only be used by those who have met the requirements of the ICAEW’s ACA qualification. To qualify students must undertake a minimum of three years on-the-job training, pass a series of rigorous examinations and commit to continuing professional development.

What’s involved?

The ACA qualification is made up of four elements which provide students with a combination of finance knowledge, accountancy skills and real-world business experience.

They are

450 days of practical work experience

Offering invaluable insights into the realities of a career in chartered accountancy.

Ethics and professional scepticism

Providing you with the skills to work under close scrutiny and be confident you are making the right decisions.

15 exam modules

Covering a broad range of topics including: financial management, law, assurance and business strategy.

Professional development

Preparing you to successfully handle different situations that you’ll encounter throughout your career.

ACA What’s Included

As part of your training, you will undertake classes with an BPP, who are an ICAEW-authorised training provider. These can be face-to-face or online, and will give you the benefit of an expert tutor.

Alongside this, we provide you with a buddy to help you through the ACA, as well as receiving support from the rest of your colleagues.

ICAEW will also provide you with a range of tools and resources to help you, such as wellbeing support, events and volunteering opportunities and access to the Student Insights hub.

Interested in becoming part of the team?

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ACCA Overview

Completing the ACCA qualification allows you flexibility to work in multiple industries and sectors across the world, with it being recognised as an international qualification that spans over 179 countries.

The ACCA qualification gives access to new exciting opportunities and enhances your career as a professional. Practical work experience is required to complete the qualification which is why individuals with ACCA status are incredibly valuable and can positively impact any business.

SAS have obtained the ACCA Platinum Accreditation Employer status, which recognises an employer’s high standards of staff training and development, proving that the company is committed to ensuring ACCA students, affiliates and members have the right skills, ethics and competences to add value and drive the business forward.

What’s involved?

The ACCA has three main components, equipping students with the skills and know-how to thrive in the accounting and broader business sector.

They are

13 Exams

Covering a wide range of content including management accounting, financial reporting taxation, audit and law.

Ethics Module

Ensuring all members are compliant with following the code of ethics in accounting and act with integrity.

36 months of practical experience

All members are required to have relevant and practical experience before becoming chartered accountants.

ACCA What’s Included

As part of the training contract, you will undertake classes with BPP, who are an ACCA-authorised training provider. These can be face-to-face or online, and will give you the benefit of an expert tutor.

Alongside this, we provide you with a buddy to help you through the ACCA, as well as receiving support from the rest of your colleagues.

The company will also cover the ACCA annual subscription fee, offer paid study leave and exam days, plus all exam fees are covered.

AAT – Apprenticeship Route Overview

Undertaking an apprenticeship will kick start your career and in recent years the popularity of this study route has increased significantly. Offering the chance to skip the cost of university by providing a debt-free route to employment, it’s easy to see why!

AAT Accounting qualifications teach practical finance and accounting skills and will develop your grasp of business and accounting. As an AAT member you demonstrate a commitment to exceptionally high standards and ethics in accounting.

SAS have been awarded AAT employer accreditation in recognition of the valuable training and development provided and our commitment to supporting students throughout their employment.

Recognised by leading employers, achieving the AAT qualification allows you to practice as an Accounting Technician, as well as apply for full AAT membership to adopt the internationally recognised professional status of MAAT. There is also an AAT-ACA fast-track route, for those looking to further their study.

What’s involved?

The AAT qualification is made up of three levels which provide students with the base knowledge required for a successful career within the accounting industry.

They are

Foundation Certificate in Accounting

(Level 2)

Advanced Diploma in Accounting

(Level 3)

Professional Diploma in Accounting

(Level 4)

AAT – Apprenticeship Route What’s included

As part of your training, you will undertake classes with an BPP, who are one of the leading training providers, having achieved trusted adviser status from the AAT. The tuition can be face-to-face or online, and will give you the benefit of an expert tutor.

Alongside this, we provide you with a buddy to help you through the AAT as well as receiving support from the rest of your colleagues.

Reach Out Today and Let’s Connect

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