Essential Preparation Steps
These four foundational elements will set you up for success in our financial reporting program. Don't worry if you're not perfect at everything yet — that's exactly what we're here to help you develop.
Basic Excel Comfort
You should feel comfortable navigating spreadsheets, creating formulas, and formatting data. We'll teach advanced techniques, but familiarity with Excel's interface will help you focus on the financial concepts rather than wrestling with software.
Understanding Financial Statements
Have you looked at a balance sheet or income statement before? Even basic exposure helps. We start from fundamentals, but knowing what these documents represent gives you a head start in our deeper analysis work.
Industry Context Awareness
Different sectors report differently. Mining companies face unique challenges compared to tech startups or retail chains. Think about which industries interest you most — this helps us tailor examples and case studies to your goals.
Analytical Curiosity
The best financial analysts ask "why" constantly. What's driving these numbers? What story do they tell? This mindset matters more than technical skills — we can teach formulas, but genuine curiosity about business performance is something you bring with you.
Marcus Thornfield
Senior Financial Analyst
Fifteen years analysing ASX-listed companies across mining, healthcare, and technology sectors. Marcus helps students understand how different industries approach financial reporting.
Elena Richfield
Investment Research Director
Former fund manager with deep experience in financial statement analysis and valuation models. Elena specialises in teaching practical application of reporting skills for investment decisions.
David Greenwick
Regulatory Compliance Expert
Twenty years in corporate finance and regulatory reporting. David ensures our curriculum reflects current Australian reporting standards and practical compliance requirements.
Are You Ready to Start?
Use this quick self-assessment to determine if you're prepared for our September 2025 intake. Most students find they're more ready than they initially think — confidence builds through practice, not perfection.
Can create and modify Excel formulas for basic calculations
Have access to current Australian company annual reports
Understand basic business terminology and concepts
Can commit to 8-10 hours per week for practical exercises
Have specific career goals related to financial analysis