Level 3 Assistant Accountant Apprenticeship
Salary: Band 2 ( £24,465 )
Location: Britannia Business Park, Comet Way, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 6GE
Hybrid: 3-4 days in the office
Application deadline: 4th March 2026
Start date: 1st September 2026
Job type: finance apprentice
Sectors: Accounting, public sector, finance, health, management
Start your finance career with purpose
Are you looking to begin a rewarding career in NHS finance while gaining a nationally recognised qualification? This Level 3 Assistant Accountant Apprenticeship offers the opportunity to earn while you learn, working as part of a supportive finance team dedicated to improving high-quality care across the NHS.
As an apprentice, you will work towards the assistant accountant apprenticeship Standard and complete the AAT qualification within 18 months, supported by experienced finance and training managers.
Working for the NHS is more than a job—it’s joining a national institution built on care, compassion, and public service. People choose NHS careers for many reasons, including purpose, impact, development, diversity, and the potential for a long term rewarding career
As one of the world's largest employers, the NHS provides stable employment and transparent reward structures. Its one of the UK’s most diverse employers, with staff from many nationalities, cultures, and backgrounds.
Every NHS role—clinical or non-clinical—plays a part in delivering high-quality healthcare.
Overview of the level 3 assistant account apprenticeship in the NHS
Working as part of the finance team, the post holder will gain valuable NHS experience and knowledge, and work towards the assistant accountant apprenticeship standard alongside gaining a nationally recognised qualification. (AAT).
The apprentice will be supported by a training manger to learn the functions of the finance department and how they support and promote the delivery of high-quality expertise and local care.
Benefits and what you can expect from the scheme:
- level 3 AAT assistant accountant apprenticeship
- salaried role with full benefits package
- 18 month training contract
- student discount
- career development from day one
- peer support and development with other trainees
- annual leave of 27 days plus 8 public holidays
- contributory pension scheme, inflation linked
- generous study and exam leave
- access to a wide range of training and development events
- networking opportunities with senior finance staff
- help with securing your first job at the end of the scheme
- ethical career choice
Required education, skill and qualifications
- Aged 18 and above (E)
- 5 GCSE’s grade 4 and above (D)
- Valid visa for the full duration of the apprenticeship or British citizenship (E)
- desire to work in the NHS (E)
- strong communication and listening skills (E)
- good time management with the ability to prioritise own work to achieve deadlines (E)
- ability to plan and organise for both work and study (E)
- be confident with a positive outlook and display a ‘can do’ attitude (E)
- hardworking with the ability to follow instruction and ask for help when necessary (E)
- innovative (E)
Next steps
1. To apply for this position please complete the application form
2. Upon successful shortlisting, you will be invited to attend an initial screening call
3. Success shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online assessment centre
4. Final stage – face to face interview
5. Job offer and start employment 1st September 2026