Listings - Money

Money

So, what's it all about?

It's the root of all evil. It can't buy us happiness, or love. But would we all like more of it? Yes, please.

We're talking about money. There's a lot of it floating about (around $40 trillion worldwide) and it takes thousands of people in the financial sector to look after it all.

Whether you're a poor student or a large business, there's one basic principle when it comes to money: you need to have at least as much of it coming in as you spend. And often, keeping track of this isn't as simple as it sounds.

Companies big and small need teams of people to look after their finances: monitoring who they need to pay, and who owes them money. They need people to help them sort out their tax bills and make sure all their employees get paid on time. Those finance experts are, generally speaking, people with good organisational skills and a good head for numbers.

And, of course, it's not just businesses that need help with money. From the student taking out a loan to cover their tuition fees, to the entrepreneur starting a new business, to the retired person claiming their pension, everyone needs financial help and advice at some stage. And it's employees in banks, accountants and insurance companies who offer that help. Again, people working in these roles are organised, and good with numbers. But it's equally important to be good with people and enjoy the challenge of helping other people achieve their goals (or escape their nightmares!).

By choosing to do an Apprenticeship in this area, you'll have made a shrewd financial decision. You'll be working towards a qualification that should see you earn a higher salary in the future. And instead of running into debt, as you'd be likely to if you stayed in full time education, you'll be earning while you learn.

Not only will you be qualified to help other people manage their money, you'll also find it easier to manage your own. And as a great many jobs in the finance sector come with a higher-than-average salary, you could find yourself, quite literally, "in the money".

What qualities do I need?

be good at maths
be polite and presentable
have good communication skills
be well organised
understand financial terms
have good IT skills (you won't be doing all your calculations on an abacus)
have a strong commercial sense
be trustworthy: you may be dealing with confidential and sensitive information

Vital Statistics

Hours: The consumer-facing financial services industry tends to keep to a Monday-Friday 9-5.30 regime - though working patterns are becoming more flexible.

Environment: Most roles are office-based, and usually involve interaction with the public - you'll need to do your ironing.

Location: All over. The real hardcore financial stuff goes on in "the City" - a square mile area in the centre of London around St Paul's Cathedral.

Apprenticeships in this sector

These are the Apprenticeships currently available in this sector. For more information and for details of the Apprenticeship framework, contact the Sector Skills Council listed after each.