Career changer – do I go for AAT or ACCA apprenticeships?

Hi all, I am in my thirties and looking to change careers into accountancy. I’m UK based and have a BA and MSc in non-related fields, plus seven years of professional experience in a research role (again, non-related subject).

I am struggling to understand how to best get started with becoming a chartered accountant (eventually). From what I read, it’s best for me to apply for an apprenticeship that pays for my training and qualifications. However, all I’m seeing are AAT apprenticeships in London and for the very few ACCA apprenticeships, I don’t qualify as they are Level 7.

Does that mean I need to first apply for an AAT apprenticeship and then later apply for an ACCA apprenticeship separately?

On another note, in the scenario where I can’t get an apprenticeship, what do I do then? It seems that self-study is only good up to a point as I don’t want to over-qualify myself from future apprenticeships nor under-qualify myself due to a lack of professional experience.

I’m so sorry, I’m left feeling rather confused and have probably been reading way too many Reddit posts. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated – thanks everyone!