The hub will give ACA students first-hand access to industry-standard tools in real-world simulations, including in audit analytics, data automation, cloud accounting and anti-money laundering compliance. It will be available to all ICAEW students, irrespective of when they began their studies.
So far, software from Dext, Firmcheck, Inflo, Knime, Sage and Xero is available for students, and more platforms will be added.
Through the hub, students will have the opportunity to develop their digital confidence and gain insight into how technology is shaping modern accountancy. It will also help to ensure the ACA continues to produce chartered accountants who are digitally literate, adaptable and future-ready, the Institute said.
As an optional resource, the Hub complements the other components of the ACA, bridging the gap between study and professional practice so students can qualify with a strong understanding of the technology landscape.
More platforms will be added to the hub over time, keeping students up to date with the latest applications across the profession, ICAEW added.
Will Holt, ICAEW Managing Director, Education and Training, said:
“Accountancy is evolving faster than ever, with technology now central to how the profession works, makes decisions and delivers value to clients. That’s why the launch of the Technology Hub is so timely for our students.
“With access to a range of platforms in the hub, students will be able to practise using workplace technology and broaden their skillset. This hands-on exposure will build their confidence and help improve their understanding of how emerging technologies work in practice. We are delighted to be able to provide our students with safe, independent access to these resources.
“The hub complements the Next Generation ACA, which launched earlier this year with technology at its core, and demonstrates that future ICAEW Chartered Accountants are comfortable in roles where digital skills are essential.”
You can find out more about the new ICAEW Technology Hub.
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About ICAEW
Chartered accountants are talented, ethical and committed professionals. ICAEW represents more than 208,000 members and students around the world.
Founded in 1880, ICAEW has a long history of serving the public interest and we continue to work with governments, regulators and business leaders globally. And, as a world-leading improvement regulator, we supervise and monitor around 12,000 firms, holding them, and all ICAEW members and students, to the highest standards of professional competency and conduct.
We promote inclusivity, diversity and fairness and we give talented professionals the skills and values they need to build resilient businesses, economies and societies, while ensuring our planet’s resources are managed sustainably.
ICAEW is the first major professional body to be carbon neutral, demonstrating our commitment to tackle climate change and supporting UN Sustainable Development Goal 13.
ICAEW is a founding member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide (CAW), a global family that connects more than 1.8m chartered accountants and students in more than 190 countries. Together, we support, develop and promote the role of chartered accountants as trusted business leaders, difference makers and advisers.
We believe that chartered accountancy can be a force for positive change. By sharing our insight, expertise and understanding we can help to create sustainable economies and a better future for all.