Apprenticeship · Level 4
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Virtual Finance Apprenticeship Programme 2027

Mercer & Hole LLP
£22,000 a year
St AlbansBatchworth

Expected closing date: Monday, 30 November 2026

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TL;DR

Key Takeaways

  • Undertake a Virtual Finance Higher Apprenticeship, studying AAT Level 3 and 4, with progression to ACA.
  • Earn £22,000 per year, working 37.5 hours per week.
  • Gain experience in bookkeeping, VAT returns, and management accounts.
  • Applications close on 2026-11-30 for a 2027 start.

About the Role

This Virtual Finance apprenticeship offers a varied and exciting career, focusing on companies outsourcing their finance functions to third-party providers. You will be a key part of the Virtual Finance team, responsible for preparing, recording, and processing data within financial systems, completing monthly management accounts, and preparing and submitting VAT returns. This role provides a pathway to becoming a future leader in a stable and rewarding career.

Learning and Development

We are committed to supporting your learning and development throughout your career. As an apprentice, you will benefit from a structured programme including trainee away days, a dedicated training manager, a buddy, and study leave. Our Learning Academy pathway provides ongoing investment in your growth.

What You'll Be Doing

As a Virtual Finance apprentice, you will work as part of the Virtual Finance team while studying for the AAT Level 3 and Level 4 qualification. You will gain well-rounded experience across a variety of clients and have opportunities to learn from senior managers and partners.

Year 1:

  • Learn the fundamentals of bookkeeping, including posting purchase and sales invoices and bank transactions.
  • Utilise software solutions to streamline processes.
  • Learn the fundamentals of VAT.
  • Take responsibility for preparing and submitting smaller VAT returns.

Year 2:

  • Calculate and post month-end journals (e.g., depreciation, accruals, prepayments).
  • Prepare month-end reporting packs and assist with commentary for clients.
  • Support junior apprentices with their queries and act as a buddy to new starters.

Training

Study will take place with our training provider, Kaplan. Apprentices are given dedicated study leave for the duration of the study pathway.

What Happens Next

Upon completion, you will have the opportunity to apply to move on to the ACA qualification.

Skills Required

  • Communication skills
  • IT skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Organisation skills
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Number skills
  • Analytical skills
  • Logical thinking
  • Team working
  • Initiative

Qualifications Required

  • GCSE English (grade 5) - essential
  • GCSE Maths (grade 5) - essential

Key Details

  • Wage: £22,000 a year
  • Working Week: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
  • Hours: 37.5 hours per week
  • Duration: 2 Years
  • Start Date: 2027-09-01
  • Closing Date: 2026-11-30
  • Apprenticeship Standard: Professional accounting technician (level 4)
  • Training Provider: KAPLAN FINANCIAL LIMITED