The CPAA has announced that enrolment is now open for the Level 5 Professional Certification in Public Practice Accountancy. The 2025 cohort of students must enrol by 31st January to secure a spot. For those planning their career development and professional progression for next year, this is a step worth pursuing to gain the knowledge and skills to thrive in this profession.
Developed and launched earlier this year, the Level 5 qualification was created by the CPAA in order to enhance expertise and raise professional standards. It provides a unique opportunity for aspiring or current accountants to perform and prosper in a rapidly evolving field – learning the latest industry issues from leading experts.
Who should apply?
As the latest addition to CPAA’s suite of professional certifications, the Level 5 programme is designed to support accountants at senior levels in small practices or those looking to advance their careers. Building on the foundations set by the other courses the CPAA offers, it is part of the professional skills portfolio designed to foster a confident and competent community of accountants.
This is an ideal form of professional development for accountants looking to establish their own practice, to gain a competitive edge. It also suits experienced professionals seeking formal recognition, including Qualified By Experience (QBE) candidates looking to consolidate and verify their skills. It also provides an opportunity for accountants looking to refresh their expertise before entering or re-entering public practice.
For existing practitioners, the qualification gives verification and validation of their knowledge and skills, and supports them in assessing the capabilities of potential employees or other accounting professionals. For newer practitioners just starting out, the qualification provides a benchmark to identify and address any gaps before entering into practice.
Key dates to note
- 31st January 2025: Registration Closes
- 5th February 2025: Live Tax Lecture
- 5th March 2025: Live Tax Lecture
- 2nd April 2025: Live Tax Lecture
- 6th May 2025: Live Tax Lecture
- 5th June 2025: Live Tax Lecture
- 8th July 2025: Tax Revision Session
- 14th August 2025: Reflective Piece Due Date
- 14th August 2025: Exam Date
- 1st October 2025: Results Issued
Course structure and benefits
The CPAA Level 5 qualification provides a comprehensive learning experience. Take a look at how the course is structured and what to expect:
- CPAA Learn Access: study materials and pre-recorded lectures cover essential topics like GDPR, financial reporting, and AML compliance. The qualification is divided into three core domains: Financial Reporting and Analysis, Advanced Taxation for Accountancy Practitioners, and Advanced Ethics and Compliance for Accountancy Practitioners.
- Live lectures: a series of sessions are provided on tax and real-world issues facing practitioners. The live lectures, led by sector experts, cover crucial topics and help participants prepare for the final exam. Speakers include renowned tax authority, Ros Martin, who will deliver a series of five tax lectures; ICAEW Council President, Julia Penny, will cover ethics and charities; Anna Hardy-Watmough, an expert in financial reporting, will empower students on this topic; and Valli Rajagopal will bring over 30 years in accountancy education to teach about data protection and AML. Lectures are made available for catch-up on CPAA Learn Access.
- Coursework: assessments include one piece of coursework, which is a self-reflective piece based on professional experience.
- Exam: the programme includes structured revision sessions designed to help prepare for the final exam. The course concludes with a final, invigilated 3-hour exam. This is delivered on a set date and can be taken remotely (one re-sit of the exam is also included if needed).
- Recognition: upon successful completion of the certification – after completing all workshops, submitting the self-reflective piece, then sitting and passing the exam – candidates will be awarded both a digital badge and certificate.
The CPPA is committed to championing the development of accountants that are technically proficient, and equipped to lead in an ever-changing financial landscape. Make 2025 the year of taking your career to new heights.
This is a journey that can start today; read more about this qualification here, view the prospectus here. Access to the whole programme of learning and the resulting qualification is £675 and enrolment is open now – just click here to sign up.
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