This announcement means that AAT will deliver the end point assessments (EPAs) for the apprenticeships, allowing apprentices to demonstrate their competence. Apprentices will also have the opportunity to gain accounting qualifications from AAT, alongside their apprenticeship to further enhance their technical knowledge.

Mark Farrar, chief executive of AAT, said: ‘Given the acceleration of emerging technologies impacting the role of accountants, such as cloud computing and predictive software, the skillsets accountants need are changing.

‘Trailblazer apprenticeships can help provide employers access to the evolving talent they need to develop and grow. With the future of accountancy at the very heart of AAT’s professional development programmes we’re proud to be in a position to be able to help meet this demand, whilst facilitating and encouraging social mobility.’

AAT has been involved in the development of the new style apprenticeships for both the professional accounting technician and the assistant accountant, and delivery has started on behalf of a variety of employers, including KPMG who are using AAT qualifications as part of the on-programme learning for trailblazers.

Suzie Webb, director of education and development at AAT, said: ‘The creation of the accounting trailblazer apprenticeships will help to provide a clear route for career progression.  AAT is pleased to have the opportunity to provide EPAs for the trailblazer accountancy standards, and to facilitate access to professional membership.’

AAT has created a new role of independent assessor to assess key components of EPAs, and the association would therefore like to hear from suitably qualified individuals, with relevant business and assessment skills, who might be interested in getting involved in this capacity.