So, you’re thinking about a career in accountancy? Whether you’re still at school, about to leave college, or just curious about what comes next, accountancy can open doors to a wide range of careers – from tax to tech, business advice to bookkeeping.
And if you’re picturing someone hunched over a calculator all day… think again. Accountancy has evolved – it’s dynamic, digital, and more people-focused than you might expect.
We’ve even got Amelia, a work experience student with us this week, helping put this blog together – and she was surprised at just how much technology is involved.
Here, we break down six simple steps to help you kickstart your career in accountancy – from school subjects to tech skills and real-world experience.
1. Understand What Accountants Actually Do
Accountants don’t just “do the numbers” – though yes, maths helps. They help businesses (and individuals) understand their finances, make smart decisions, and stay on the right side of tax rules.
Some specialise in helping charities, others support small business owners, and some dive into the tech side of things, setting up cloud-based finance systems. It’s a varied, people-focused, and genuinely helpful profession.
2. GCSEs & A-Levels – Your First Building Blocks
You don’t need to study accountancy at school to become an accountant (though it’s great if your school offers business or finance modules).
At GCSE level, aim for strong results in:
- Maths (a solid foundation is key)
- English (yes, accountants need to explain things clearly!)
- ICT or Computer Science (because tech plays a big role)
For A-levels, there’s flexibility. Useful subjects include:
- Maths or Statistics
- Economics or Business Studies
- Accounting (if available)
- IT or Computer Science
But don’t worry – people enter a career in Accountancy from all sorts of backgrounds.
3. Explore Apprenticeships & Trainee Routes
One of the best things about a career in Accountancy? You can earn while you learn.
Many firms – including us at Blue Spire in Chichester – take on apprentices or trainees. These programmes let you:
- Work in a real accountancy firm
- Study for professional qualifications (like AAT, ACCA, or ICAEW)
- Get paid while you build your career
Some routes start straight after GCSEs, others after A-levels or university – so there’s something for everyone.
Amelia said:
“I had no idea there were so many different ways into accountancy – and that you could start right after school and build up qualifications while working!”
4. Discover the Tech Side of Accountancy
Gone are the days of dusty ledgers and manual calculators. Today, accountants use powerful digital tools like:
- Xero (we’re proud to be a Xero Platinum Partner here at Blue Spire)
- QuickBooks, Sage, and other cloud platforms
- Excel (you’ll become a spreadsheet ninja in no time)
- Data analytics tools
- Automation and AI software
What does that mean for you? If you enjoy solving problems with tech, automating tasks, and finding clever solutions, you’ll thrive.
5. Try It Out – Get Work Experience
There’s no better way to learn than by doing. Whether it’s a week’s work experience, a summer internship, or chatting with someone in the field, getting a taste of a career in Accountancy helps you:
- Understand the day-to-day work
- See which areas interest you most
- Build your CV early
(And yes, making tea is part of the deal – but so is learning how to work with real clients, solve real problems, and feel like part of a team.)
6. Keep an Open Mind – and Keep Learning
Accountancy isn’t a one-size-fits-all career. Once you’re in, you can:
- Specialise in tax, payroll, auditing, or forensic accounting
- Work with businesses, charities, or even football clubs
- Become self-employed, work abroad, or join a big firm
What matters most? Staying curious, building your skills, and enjoying the journey.
Final Thoughts – Your Career in Accountancy Starts Here
If you’re organised, enjoy solving problems, and want a career that’s stable, flexible, and full of potential – accountancy could be perfect for you.
It’s not just about maths. It’s about people, business, and technology. It’s about using your skills to help others succeed – and building a career you can shape your own way.
If Amelia’s week with us has shown her anything, it’s that a career in accountancy is far from boring.
| Got questions about a career in Accountancy? Thinking about work experience or an apprenticeship? We’re always happy to chat – just pop into our Chichester office, drop us a message, or give us a call. |
