Accredited Training Organisations (ATOs): Building the Next Generation of Chartered Accountants
Introduction
Embarking on the journey to becoming a Chartered Accountant of Singapore demands more than academic excellence; equally vital is real-world experience. Consequently, Accredited Training Organisations (ATOs) stand at the core of this journey, ensuring that candidates receive not only knowledge but also structured, professional development. In this article, we’ll explore what ATOs are, how they function, and why they’re indispensable for candidates pursuing the Singapore CA Qualification.
1. Defining an Accredited Training Organisation (ATO)
First and foremost, an ATO is an organisation recognised by SAC (prior to 1 April 2023), ACRA (after 1 April 2023), or ISCA (after 1 January 2024) for maintaining robust standards of staff training, accountancy resources, and candidate development. This accreditation ensures that candidates receive a quality and structured learning environment while fulfilling their practical experience requirements.
2. Why Accreditation Matters
Accreditation is far more than a formality. It reflects the organisation’s ethical commitment, leadership support, and training excellence. To qualify as an ATO, a firm must demonstrate that it:
- Upholds professional and ethical standards
- Identifies and addresses the training needs of candidates
- Offers meaningful development opportunities
- Actively monitors and reviews candidate progress
In essence, candidates can rely on ATOs to provide the hands-on experience and mentorship crucial for their career growth.
3. Key Roles: Training Principal & Approved Mentor
A. Training Principal
Every ATO must appoint a Training Principal, who shoulders the responsibility of ensuring candidate development and maintaining communication with ISCA. Specifically, the Training Principal must:
- Be contractually employed and have authority over training decisions
- Maintain the organisation’s ATO status
- Administer Training Agreements
- Allocate Approved Mentors
- Confirm when candidates complete the practical experience requirements
Often, a Secondary Contact, such as an HR or L&D specialist, may support the Training Principal with administrative tasks.
B. Approved Mentor
Next, an Approved Mentor is appointed to work closely with each candidate. This mentor:
- Reviews and verifies the candidate’s Record of Practical Experience and Competence (RPEC)
- Must be a senior staff member—though not necessarily the line manager—with at least three years of post-qualification experience and membership in a professional accountancy body recognised by IFAC
To ensure quality guidance, each Approved Mentor is typically assigned up to 8 candidates.
4. Practical Experience Requirements
For candidates, the practical experience component involves working in an ATO for at least 3 full calendar years and achieving a minimum of 450 working days.
During this period, candidates must:
- Meet regularly (at least every six months) with their Approved Mentor
- Log progress in the RPEC, covering both generic and technical competences, including at least one element of Financial Reporting (ISCA)
These milestones ensure that candidates develop both breadth and depth in their professional competencies, preparing them to succeed as Chartered Accountants.
5. Partner with an ISCA-Approved ATO
At USAFE, we are proud to be an ISCA-Approved Accredited Training Organisation (ATO). This recognition affirms our commitment to providing aspiring Chartered Accountants with a structured, supportive, and professional training environment. Whether you are beginning your Singapore CA Qualification or advancing your career, partnering with an approved ATO like USAFE ensures you receive the right mentorship, resources, and practical experience to succeed.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute any professional advice. Feel free to contact us to consult with our professional advisors team for personalized advice and guidance.
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