Graduate Apprentice (GA) Accounting

The Graduate Apprentice (GA) in Accounting will support the finance function by assisting with financial reporting, accounting processes. As a finance apprentice, the role focuses on applying academic knowledge in a practical business environment while developing professional accounting skills under the guidance of experienced finance professionals.

As a Graduate Apprentice you will study for your degree alongside your job, spending approximately 80% of your time in work and 20% in university. This unique combination offers an integrated experience, where practical skills and knowledge gained during the university days can be embedded in your working practices. Skills learned directly in the workplace are aligned with and can be applied to coursework and assessment. This allows you to attain your degree qualification in the same time as an equivalent full-time student.

Graduate apprenticeships in accounting play a crucial role in developing the future workforce of the accounting industry, aligning with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) mission to build a strong, skilled, and ethical profession.

Key Features Include:

• Integrated Masters: A 5-year programme, focus on ACCA professional stage courses in the final year.
• Accredited Learning: BA (Hons) awarded after Year 4, followed by ACCA professional course in Year 5.
• Fully Funded: Tuition fees are paid by the Scottish Funding Council (SFC).
• Work-Based Learning: In addition to taught modules, apprentices complete work-based learning, culminating in a year 4 project addressing real challenges in their organisation.

Main Duties and Responsibilities at Had Fab:

Financial Support and Accounting Operations:

• Assist the finance team with day-to-day accounting activities including:
• Preparing financial records and maintaining accurate accounting documentation
• Supporting month-end and year-end accounting processes
• Processing invoices, payments, and reconciliations
• Assisting with financial reporting and management accounts
• Developing understanding of financial controls and internal compliance procedures

Documentation and Financial Systems:

• Maintaining financial records in accordance with company procedures and accounting standards
• Support the maintenance and use of finance systems and software.
• Assist in documenting financial processes and procedures to ensure clarity and consistency.

Financial Reporting:

• Support the finance team with financial reporting activities including:
• Preparing reports to support financial decision making
• Assisting with budgeting and forecasting processes
• Supporting the preparation of financial statements and management reports
• Learning to analyse financial data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement
• Supporting audit preparation and documentation where required

Business Collaboration:

• Work closely with internal stakeholders across departments including operations, project management, and leadership teams to ensure financial information supports business performance.
• Support the finance team in gathering information required for project costing, financial planning, and operational reporting.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the finance function.
• Maintain accurate and organised financial records in line with company procedures.
• Support the maintenance and use of finance systems and software.
• Assist in documenting financial processes and procedures to ensure clarity and consistency.

Learning and Development:

• Engage in structured academic learning and workplace training throughout the Graduate Apprenticeship programme.
• Complete a five-year Graduate Apprenticeship Masters in Accounting with Edinburgh Napier University, combining academic study with workplace experience.
• Work-based learning projects will form part of the programme, enabling the apprentice to apply academic learning directly to real business challenges.
• By the end of the programme, apprentices will have achieved a Masters-level qualification and progressed through the ACCA professional syllabus, positioning them to become a fully qualified Chartered Accountant.

Skills, Knowledge, and Attributes Qualifications & Expertise:

• Interest in pursuing a career in accounting, finance, or business.
• Strong numeracy and analytical ability.
• Basic understanding of accounting principles or business studies is advantageous but not essential.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, or willingness to develop these skills.
• Eligible to enrol in the Graduate Apprenticeship Masters in Accounting programme with Edinburgh Napier University.
• Four SQA Highers at Grade BBCC including both Maths and English at Grade
• CA Foundation Apprenticeship in a relevant subject at SCQF Level 6 plus two SQA Highers
• A Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 6-7 in a related discipline
• HNC with C in the graded unit in a related discipline
• Sufficient recognition of prior learning (RPL) through industry-related experience, qualifications, and informal learning. RPL applications are considered on an individual basis
• Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to learn quickly and apply new knowledge in a practical environment.
• Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively as part of a team.
• Strong motivation and commitment to completing a long-term professional qualification.
• Professional attitude and willingness to take responsibility for personal development.

What We Offer?

• Salary: £28,000 yearly.
• Working Hours: 39 hours per week
• Working Days: Mon to Thurs 8:00am - 16:30pm & Fri will be at University
• 28 days holiday, plus an additional 5 days after 5 years continuous service
• Additional day off on birthday
• Access to Employee Assistance Programme
• Enhanced paternity/maternity leave
• Death in service insurance

Closing Date for applications is 4 May 2026.