Some employers may ask for a relevant degree in a subject like:

• finance
• accounting
• business studies

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

You may find it useful to do a college course, which could help you get a trainee job with a financial firm.

Courses include:

• Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping
• Level 2 Certificate in Accounting
• Level 3 Certificate in Financial Studies
• T Level in Accounting

Entry requirements

You may need:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level

You can get into this job through an assistant accountant advanced apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

You could start as a finance assistant or accounts assistant and then work your way into this role after getting experience.

If you want to apply directly for jobs you'll usually need GCSEs, including maths and English.

A levels in maths, business studies or economics may also be useful.

You'll need:

• knowledge of economics and accounting
• business management skills
• maths knowledge
• analytical thinking skills
• financial management skills
• leadership skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

As part of your day-to-day duties, you could:

• record financial transactions on computer systems
• produce financial forecasts
• deal with payroll, invoices, expenses and VAT
• resolve payment questions for external contractors
• carry out financial audits
• create budget reports
• present reports to managers

You could work in an office.