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Post school and college leaver programmes often require students to have good grades from their A Levels, Scottish Highers, BTEC National Diploma or equivalent.  These schemes provide a great way to start your career immediately whilst at the same time working towards a relevant qualification.  There are generally two types of post school and college schemes.

Sponsored degree programme
Some employers in finance, accountancy and financial services now sponsor individuals through a degree programme, paying the tuition fees that universities charge. In most situations, the degree will be studied on a part time or ‘blocked teaching’ basis and will generally require attendance at university for short periods of time throughout the programme.  The employer will link up with one or two universities to deliver the degree programme. The degree subject will be chosen by the employer and all trainees will study for the same programme. Some sponsored degree programmes also include professional qualifications. These programmes often last between 3 and six years.

Professional qualification programme
Professional qualifications are very important in the finance, accountancy and financial services sector.  For many years employers in the sector have offered training programmes which have professional qualifications embedded within them. These programmes will give you the recognised qualifications to work in the sector and can sometimes put you in the same position as someone with a degree.

You will be part of the business from day one and will be expected to study to achieve your qualifications at the same time as working.  The employer is likely to provide you with time off from work for your studies where you will attend college or university, or the training element may be provided on site so that you don’t need to leave the office. 

The majority of post school and college programmes have an applications procedure which will consist of an online application form, psychometric tests, and an assessment centre, which will include an interview.

Some schemes offer ‘rotations’, where you will spend time in different departments, developing your understanding of the entire business. You will get a chance to meet a range of people across the firm, working with line managers who will require you to perform to your highest ability.  Your hard work will be rewarded though with a step up in your career.  Rotations help you to find your niche in the firm and plan your future career.

It is really important that you research your options and feel comfortable committing to a long term training programme.  The employer will want to see that you are dedicated to completing the programme and that you want to remain in the profession.  The employer is investing heavily in your training and it is important that they have a return on their financial outlay.

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