Finance Apprentice in Carmarthen

Our Hywel Dda values reflect who we are and how we behave. We continuously work together to be the best we can be as we strive to develop and deliver excellent services, putting people at the heart of everything we do. Throughout our recruitment process you will be asked to think about how you would demonstrate these values in the way that you work with us.

Job overview

Our Finance Apprenticeship Programme, starting in early September, is a fantastic opportunity to start a career in finance while gaining a nationally recognised qualification. You’ll train to become an Accounts Assistant through a paid, work‑based apprenticeship, learning on the job and earning at the same time. Finance is a rewarding career where you can make a real difference within Hywel Dda University Health Board. You don’t need previous finance experience – what’s most important is a willingness to learn, good communication skills, and a commitment to living the Health Board’s values in everything you do. This apprenticeship offers a clear pathway into a permanent Accounts Assistant role. By the end of the programme, you will achieve AAT qualifications up to Level 4, allowing you to apply for full AAT membership – without the student debt that usually comes with studying. Throughout the programme, you’ll be supported to succeed, with regular Reviews to check your progress. The first review takes place after 3 months and helps ensure you have the right support, guidance, and encouragement as you develop your skills. Your salary will increase as you progress and achieve your competencies (subject to Agenda for Change pay reviews). Full details can be found in the attached Information Booklet.

What you’ll do

• Finance qualification pathway

• AAT Level 2 Certificate – 12 months
• AAT Level 3 Diploma – 12 months
• AAT Level 4 Diploma – 12 months

Once fully qualified, you’ll be expected to remain employed with Hywel Dda University Health Board for a minimum of two years, allowing you to build experience and continue your career development. Working alongside experienced finance professionals, you’ll gain hands‑on experience in NHS finance and develop practical skills including:

• Bookkeeping and financial processing
• Costing and budgeting
• Assisting in the preparation of financial statements
• Understanding how finance supports healthcare services

You’ll have ongoing support from your workplace mentor, college tutors, and the Apprenticeship Academy team, ensuring you’re never learning alone. As your confidence and knowledge grow, your responsibilities will increase in line with your learning – helping you build a strong foundation for a long‑term career in finance.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

What are the entry requirements for the Finance Apprentice Programme?

• You must be aged 18+ in September 2026
• You must hold a minimum of three A level passes (or equivalent) with a minimum of 96 UCAS points cumulatively. If you are waiting on A level (or equivalent) results your predicted grades must be a minimum of 96 UCAS points cumulatively. Evidence of actual or predicted will be required on the Assessment Day. If not already done so at the Assessment Day, you will be required to provide proof of your actual results prior to commencing the role and failure to obtain the minimum standard of 96 UCAS points cumulatively will mean that your offer on the programme will be rescinded.
• It is desirable, but not essential, that these qualifications are related to finance and/or accounting.
• You must have current right to work in the UK and have lived in the UK for the last three years
• You must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• You must be able to demonstrate a willingness to work hard and a commitment to finance
• You must be committed to studying and working simultaneously which requires a high level of dedication
• You must not be in any formal government-funded education at the time of starting the Finance Apprentice Programme

If interested, please complete the attached application form before the closing date. In the section ‘Supporting Information’ we would like you to tell us why you think you should be selected for this opportunity in 100 – 200 words per question.

• Why are you applying to be a Finance Apprentice?
• Why do you think you would make a good learner?
• Why would you like to work for Hywel Dda University Health Board?

Virtual information sessions will be held on the following dates to allow you the opportunity to join and ask questions regarding the vacancy.

• 27th April 2026
• 30th April 2026
• 14th May 2026

Once the closing date has passed, those who are successfully shortlisted will be invited to attend an assessment day. The assessment day will comprise of a variety of activities including interview and scenario work. The assessment day will be held on 09/07/2026. If you are successfully recruited, you will start your employment as a Finance Apprentice with Hywel Dda University Health Board in early September 2026. Those not successful this time around will be offered support from the Health Board, local College, Careers Wales Centre and Job Centre.

Why apply for an apprenticeship in Hywel Dda University Health Board?

• Apprenticeships are great first step into a career in the NHS
• Apprenticeships combine practical training with paid employment (‘learn while you earn’)
• An opportunity to work alongside experienced staff to support you and help gain the practical skills you need
• You gain nationally recognised qualifications, with no tuition fees
• A potential first step to professional training
• A great experience, working as part of a team, making a real difference
• Invest in your future. Come and join the Hywel Dda family. There’s no better place to #TrainWorkLive

We are committed to being transparent and supportive around our recruitment processes. We want to support you to perform at your best through identifying and supporting reasonable adjustments where appropriate. If you would like to discuss this further, at any stage of the recruitment process, please get in touch with the Apprenticeship Academy team in advance.