IAB Level 1 - Award in Computerised Bookkeeping

IAB's Ofqual-regulated Computerised Bookkeeping qualification is a great start for those wanting a career or business in bookkeeping. Developed by industry experts, it equips you with essential skills, from basics to becoming a fully qualified bookkeeper. Recognised and trusted, these qualifications are regulated by Ofqual, QiW, and CCEA, meeting high-quality standards from levels 1 to 4. Plus, with flexible study options and Approved Centres, you can balance your studies with your current responsibilities.

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 computerised accounting:
• Understand the basics of computerised accounting
• Understand accounting terms
• Recognise source documents
• Understand the basics of the VAT system

Set up a computerised accounting system and process data

• Set up a computerised accounting system
• Process credit-based transactions
• Process cash sales and sundry income
• Process receipts from credit customers
• Process payments to credit suppliers
• Process payments through the bank current account
• Process petty cash transactions
• Reconcile the balance on the bank current account
• Generate reports

Who is it suitable for?

The Level 1 Award in Computerised Bookkeeping qualification is specifically aimed at learners who wish to begin their studies of computerised accounting and gain entry to a Level 1 qualification within the regulated qualification framework.

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:

• Bookkeeper in digital accounting
• Accounts Assistant
• Bookkeeping Assistant
• Set-up own bookkeeping practice (flexible work from Home – anywhere and anytime).

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.

How it is assessed?

This qualification is made up of:

This qualification is made up of the following two assessments:

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 – Practical Assessment

After completing the SAGE online learning, learners must complete the necessary SAGE practical assessment

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.

Provide access to SAGE digital application.

Please be aware that, once provided with your log-in for Sage Business Cloud, Sage will only allow you to access the portal for 180 days. If you have not completed your Sage element of your qualification in this time, you will need to contact us to arrange for an extension. Please note that there will be a fee for this, payable to Sage Qualifications plus a small admin fee.

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 and admin@aprc-accountants.com

We will respond to your enquiry as soon as possible.

Office Hours:

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