For decades, university has been viewed as the default pathway into professional careers. But new research commissioned by ACCA suggests today’s young people are increasingly looking for alternatives that combine academic achievement with practical experience. Rob Alder, head of apprenticeship relationships, and George Tsounias, early careers manager at ACCA, write
The route into accountancy is changing. New research commissioned by ACCA suggests that today’s young people are increasingly looking for alternatives that combine academic achievement with practical experience.
Eight in ten (80%) 14-18-year-olds surveyed said they would be likely to pursue an apprenticeship after leaving school, while 94% would find the opportunity to earn a salary, gain a professional qualification and study towards a degree at the same time appealing.
This reflects changing attitudes towards higher education. They point to a generation that wants to develop skills in real workplaces, build financial independence earlier and see a clear connection between education and long-term career opportunities.
Apprenticeships present a significant opportunity
Like many sectors, accountancy is operating in a rapidly evolving environment. Advances in technology and growing demand for strategic insight mean employers need professionals with strong technical knowledge alongside critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Attracting and developing that talent early on has never been more important.
Apprenticeships will play an increasingly important role in meeting that need. With the Government expanding technical education from age 14 and the apprenticeship funding changes introduced in January 2026, employers are expected to place an even greater focus on recruiting school leavers through apprenticeships.
By combining structured learning with practical workplace experience, apprentices develop professional capabilities from the very start of their careers.
Rather than waiting until after graduation to apply what they have learned, they build technical expertise and confidence simultaneously, seeing first-hand how accountants support organisations to make informed decisions, manage risk and create long-term value.
Our survey reinforces why this model resonates with young people. The opportunity to earn while learning and gain real-world experience was identified as the biggest attraction, alongside avoiding student debt. These priorities demonstrate a pragmatic approach to career planning.
Widening participation across the profession
Creating multiple routes into accountancy ensures talented individuals are not defined by a single educational pathway. As an employer talent partner, ACCA provides flexible entry points that help organisations attract, develop and retain future finance professionals while widening access to the profession.
For school leavers, the Level 4 apprenticeship offers an opportunity to begin a professional career while earning and learning. Graduates can accelerate their development through the Level 7 apprenticeship, combining workplace experience with a globally recognised professional qualification.
In addition, ACCA’s partnership with the University of London offers eligible students the opportunity to gain a bachelor’s degree alongside their professional studies, depending on their chosen pathway.
Of course, apprenticeships also require commitment. Balancing work responsibilities alongside academic study is demanding, and competition for apprenticeship places is fierce. Success often depends on being organised and persistent, with students researching opportunities well in advance and submitting multiple applications across employers of different sizes. It’s encouraging that young people seem to recognise this. In our research, managing work and study was the biggest concern among respondents.
That makes the role of employers especially important. Successful apprenticeships rely on organisations providing structured support, mentoring and opportunities to develop. When employers invest in apprentices, they are not simply recruiting for today’s vacancies. They are developing leaders of the future.
So what can accountancy degree apprenticeship students expect?
Junior accountants are immersed in the profession from the outset. Rather than learning solely in a classroom, apprentices become part of finance teams, supporting colleagues with reports, assisting with audits, analysing data and developing problem-solving skills. As their knowledge and confidence grow, so do the responsibilities they are given.
Alongside their day-to-day roles, apprentices study towards recognised professional qualifications. Balancing work with structured learning allows them to apply new knowledge immediately in the workplace, reinforcing both their technical understanding and professional skills. They can also expect to develop skills that are increasingly valued across the profession.
As technology and AI continue to automate routine processes, employers are looking for people who can interpret information, communicate effectively, exercise professional judgement and build trusted relationships with clients and colleagues. These are capabilities that apprentices develop from the very start of their careers through exposure to real business environments and experienced mentors. As a result, successful professionals increasingly need curiosity, ethical judgement, adaptability and strong interpersonal skills alongside technical expertise.
The strong interest in the accountancy profession shown by young people in our research should give the profession confidence. It demonstrates there is no shortage of ambition among the next generation. The challenge now is ensuring they continue to see accountancy as a career that is accessible and rewarding.
By investing in high-quality apprenticeships, employers can strengthen their talent pipeline while offering young people an opportunity to earn, learn and build careers. For the profession itself, it is not simply an alternative route into accountancy but an investment in its long-term success – and that is something we should all welcome.
