AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting

To successfully achieve the qualification, students will have to complete four units, Introduction to Bookkeeping, Principles of Bookkeeping Controls, Principles of Costing, and The Business Environment.

Introduction to Bookkeeping - This unit introduces students to the double-entry bookkeeping system and the associated documents and processes. Students will reach the stage of extracting an initial trial balance before any adjustments are made. It provides students with the skills necessary to operate a manual double-entry bookkeeping system and provides a strong foundation for progression to more advanced manual and computerised activities.

Principles of Bookkeeping Controls - This unit is about control accounts, journals and methods of payment. It takes students through reconciliation processes and the use of the journal to the stage of redrafting the trial balance, following initial adjustments. The unit covers more complex bookkeeping procedures, which will enable students to develop their understanding of the relationship between the various accounting records and consolidate their knowledge of double-entry bookkeeping. Students will gain the confidence they need to perform well in the workplace and the unit will prepare them for greater responsibility.

Principles of Costing - This unit gives students a basic introduction to costing, while building a sound foundation in the knowledge and skills they need for more complex costing and management accounting units such as Management Accounting Techniques and Applied Management Accounting. Students will understand the importance of the costing system as a source of information for internal management decision making. In contrast to the more outward perspective of financial accounting, the skills developed in this unit will allow students to provide information to managers that can be used to assist in internal business planning, decision making and control.

The Business Environment - This unit provides knowledge and understanding of key business concepts and their practical application in the external and internal environment in which students will work. Students will gain an understanding of the legal system and principles of contract law and an appreciation of the legal implications of setting up a business and the consequences this may have. Wider issues impacting businesses will be considered, including the global economic environment in which it operates, how governments impact upon it and the competitive nature of the global economy.

The unit will prepare students for the current workplace and help them recognise the importance of working effectively, whilst acknowledging the value of differences and being sensitive to the needs of others. They will gain an appreciation of communication methods and learn how to recognise valid sources of information. They will develop skills in using data analytic technology to solve problems, analyse data and communicate effectively.

There is no formal entry requirement, however students are expected to have literacy and numeracy skills equivalent to level 2 (GCSE). A good working understanding of maths and budgeting would be an advantage.

Work experience in an accounting environment is not necessary but would be an advantage. You will need to have an understanding of budgeting and be confident with using computerised spreadsheets. Methodical and accurate working styles will also be an advantage.

AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting

Students may wish to progress to the AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting qualification. You may also use this qualification to gain related employment in an introductory accounts role.

There are four computer-based examinations. These exams are set at pre-determined dates set by the department. You will need to successfully complete all exams in order to gain your qualification.

Students are expected to spend approximately six to eight hours a week on independent study. This consists of weekly homework checks and exam preparation.

Employment or the ability to access work in a related area is not necessary but will be an advantage to support learning.

Learners will be required to register for the qualification directly with AAT and pay a fee. These fees are set by the AAT and are subject to yearly changes without notice. Students are expected to buy course book/materials. Students are also expected to pay for any resit examinations.