Accounting technician : Training

Both the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT)  Accounting Qualification and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)  Certified Accounting Technician (CAT) qualification require evidence of practical skills. Technicians may also use voluntary work or hobbies, such as being the treasurer for a local society, as examples of work experience.

Most accounting technicians receive on-the-job training. Procedures and software packages vary depending on the sector, the company and the area in which you are working. Employees are recognising the need for continuing professional development (CPD) in their career plans, and employers are increasingly aware of this. Many employers are prepared to offer some form of support to employees in order to enable them to update and improve their skills and knowledge.

Support from employers takes many forms and may include payment of college fees or time off for study, either by attending a day release course or being granted study leave. The AAT has an Accredited Employer's scheme, which recognises organisations that have shown commitment to AAT training.