AAT Level 2 - Certificate in Bookkeeping

This qualification is designed to provide you with the skills and essential knowledge needed to perform manual bookkeeping tasks that form the foundation of all accountancy and finance roles. While cloud accounting and digital technologies have automated many aspects of manual bookkeeping, understanding the manual system remains crucial for grasping digital accounting systems. This is because the principles of manual bookkeeping have been digitalised, integrated, and automated to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

No prior accounting knowledge is required to pursue this qualification. However, learners, whether school leavers or those changing careers, who are interested in accounting and finance as a profession, may consider starting at Level 2. This qualification offers a solid foundation in single-entry bookkeeping, making it an ideal entry-level course. It is particularly suited for individuals with little or no previous bookkeeping experience and serves as a strong starting point before advancing to more comprehensive qualifications.

What it covers?

This Level 2 qualification introduces development in practical accountancy skills in the double-entry bookkeeping system and in using associated documents and processes while gaining an understanding that digital accounting systems are automating some of the stages in the process. Students will cover transactions for accuracy, make entries in appropriate books and ledgers and calculate sales invoices and credit notes.

This Level 2 qualification includes two (2) units. You must complete the below two units to gain the certificate.

Unit 1: Introduction to Bookkeeping

This unit provides students with an understanding of manual and digital bookkeeping systems, including the associated documents and processes. Students will learn the basic principles that underpin the double-entry bookkeeping systems.

Percentage contribution of this unit to the overall qualification grade: 50%.

Learning outcomes

• Understanding the duality concept (double entry system) & accounting source documents
• Recording business transactions into bookkeeping systems leading to the trial balance.
• Understanding basic VAT (indirect tax)
• Process customer transactions.
• Process supplier transactions.
• Process receipts and payments.
• Process transactions into the ledger accounts.

Unit 2:  Principles of Bookkeeping Controls

This unit builds on the knowledge and skills acquired from studying Introduction to Bookkeeping and explores control accounts, journals and reconciliations. Students will develop the ability to prepare the value added tax (VAT) control accounts as well as the receivables and payables ledger accounts. They will use the journal to record a variety of transactions, including the correction errors. Students will be able to redraft the initial trial balance, following adjustments.

Percentage contribution of this unit to the overall qualification grade: 50%.

Learning outcomes

• Use control accounts.
• Reconcile a bank statement with the cash book.
• Use the journal.
• Produce trial balances.

Who is it suitable for?

The Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping is ideal for:

• Individuals with Limited or No Accounting Knowledge: This course provides a solid foundation in bookkeeping principles.
• Beginners Seeking Further Study: It serves as an entry-level course for those new to bookkeeping or as a stepping stone for advanced qualifications.
• Unqualified Accounting Staff: Perfect for those looking to enhance their foundational knowledge and skills.
• Employers: Ideal for businesses aiming to upskill their staff in bookkeeping.
• Career Changers: Suitable for those looking to transition into a finance-related career.
• Students Progressing to Level 3: Some students use this qualification as a quick path to advance to Level 3.

The course offers a balanced mix of theoretical and practical learning through expert tutors, interactive online resources, and engaging classroom sessions, preparing you effectively for the AAT exams and a successful career in finance. We anticipate that most students will complete this qualification within 3 months.

Potential Career Opportunities

Upon completing this qualification, you will be well-prepared to apply for roles such as:

• Trainee bookkeeper
• Finance assistant
• Accounts administrator
• Clerical assistant

How long it takes?

The qualification usually takes between 3-6 months to complete, but this will depend on study method and course timetable.

How and where to study?

You can choose to study through online distance learning, blended learning, or in the classroom—whatever suits you best. Whether you prefer evening classes, part-time, or full-time study, there’s an option to fit your schedule. Even if you opt for distance learning, you'll need to find a training provider. We’ll assist you every step of the way, including with registration. Once a cohort of students is registered, we’ll schedule sessions at times that work best for the group.

What to expect from us?

We provide flexible study options through block-teaching sessions, available both online and in-person, tailored to fit your lifestyle and schedule. To ensure personalised support and cost-effective delivery, we create small cohorts of learners, allowing us to offer comprehensive attention to each individual.

For those in full-time employment, we recognise the challenges of balancing work and personal commitments. That's why we schedule sessions around your availability, including daytime, evenings, and weekends. Throughout your studies, you’ll receive continuous support and guidance from your personal AAT tutor, who will be with you every step of the way.

You will have seven-day-a-week access to our team of fully qualified, highly experienced tutors and course advisors, selected for their deep industry knowledge. Our mission is to equip you with everything needed to confidently progress through your AAT course and achieve your qualification in the most efficient and cost-effective manner possible.

What is the cost?

The total cost for the course, including all registration and assessment fees, is £794. This includes:

• A course fee of £600, which covers tuition (if attending in-person classes) and is paid directly to us.
• A standard qualification fee of £194, payable to AAT from 1 September 2024. This fee comprises a registration fee of £68 and two (2) unit assessments, each priced at £63 (i.e. £63*2=£126).

The registration fee, paid directly to AAT, grants access to study support resources and covers assessment scheduling for the duration of the qualification, typically four to five years. The assessment fee is paid to your training provider or assessment venue.

Please be aware that training providers and assessment venues may charge an additional administrative fee for the assessment, which can vary between organisations.

Entry requirements

Students can start with any qualification based on their existing skills and experience. For the best chance of success, we recommend that students have a strong foundation in English and maths before beginning their studies. Ideally, GCSE English and Maths with grades 4 - 9.

If you already have some accounting experience, use the AAT Skill check to assess your knowledge and determine the most suitable qualification to start with. We will assist you on this entry requirements. Please contact us for your skills check.

Contact us about studying an AAT Qualification

• Whatsapp: +44(0)7841144988    
• Email: admin@aprcb.com

We will respond to your enquiry as soon as possible.

Office Hours:

Monday to Friday, 09:00 to 17:00 UK time