IAB Level 1 - Award in Bookkeeping

This entry-level standalone qualification equips you with the skills to become a bookkeeper and earn an industry-recognised credential. Additionally, you'll have the option to advance to the full IAB qualification. No prior accounting knowledge is required to study this qualification. It provides a solid foundation for learners wanting an introduction to the process of keeping double entry records, preparing reconciliations and a trial balance. This qualification is perfect for those with no previous bookkeeping knowledge or experience, and it serves as a strong starting point before progressing to more advanced, foundation-level qualifications.

What it covers?

This qualification is made up of the following units:

Introduction to bookkeeping – T/508/5857

• Understand the basics of double entry bookkeeping
• Understand bookkeeping terms
• Recognise source documents and understand their purpose
• Understand the basics of VAT
• Understand the purpose of the trial balance and petty cash and bank reconciliations

Keep double entry records and prepare a trial balance – A/508/5858

• Use the journal
• Record transactions in a double entry bookkeeping system
• Prepare a trial balance

Prepare reconciliations – F/508/5859

• Reconcile the petty cash balance
• Prepare a bank reconciliation statement

Who is it suitable for?

The Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping qualification is specifically aimed at leaners who wish to begin their studies of bookkeeping and gain entry to a Level 1 qualification within the RQF. The qualification has been designed to appeal to individuals within the following groups:

• Learners starting their studies in the subject of bookkeeping from a point of no previous knowledge or experience.
• Learners employed at a junior level with some limited basic bookkeeping knowledge and skills, who want to formalise their competence by gaining a recognised accredited qualification in bookkeeping.
• Learners returning to study and/or work after a study or career break.
• Learners considering a change in career.
• Learners considering a career as a self-employed practitioner.
• Owners of a small business wanting an introduction to the function of bookkeeping with a view of keeping financial records for their business.

Potential Career Opportunities

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

• Cashier
• Clerical Assistant
• Trainee Bookkeeping 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. Most students can potentially complete this qualification a little quicker within 2–3 months, they aim to fast-track on their 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. The Level 1 Bookkeeping RQF book covers the entirety of this qualification, and can be buy the book from us. Please send your purchase order to our email.

How it is assessed?

This qualification is made up of:

1 – Online Knowledge Test

Online Knowledge tests are a series of independent short answer questions made up of multiple-choice, gap fill, and true or false type questions. They are assessed via IAB Education and are open book. This might be taken in class or at home.

2 – Online Assignments

Online Assignments are also assessed via IAB Education and are also open book. These are taken in class or at home and are short case study type questions with several tasks for each case study.

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 IAB 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 IAB course and achieve your qualification in the most efficient and cost-effective manner possible.

What is the cost?

The total cost for the course is £500 plus the registration, assessment, admin and certification fees. The total cost can be determined at the point of enrolment.

• A course fee of £500, which covers tuition (if attending in-person classes) and is paid directly to us.

• Registration onto the qualification
• All IAB assessment fees (excluding re-sits)
• Certification upon successful completion of all assessments.

The registration fee, paid directly to IAB, grants access to study support resources. 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.

Contact us about studying an IAB 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