AAT Diploma in Accounting
This AAT qualification is an ideal starting point for anyone wishing to pursue a career in accountancy or finance.
The Level 2 Foundation Diploma will prepare you for junior and entry level accounting roles. It delivers a solid foundation in finance administration – covering areas such as double entry bookkeeping to basic costing principles and using accounting software.
The Level 3 Advanced Diploma will provide you with the specialist knowledge and skills required for progressing either to employment in an accounting or finance role, or to enable progression to further study in accountancy and finance. It is possible for students to complete Level 2 in the first year and Level 3 in the second year.
You will develop accountancy skills in double-entry bookkeeping and basic costing, as well as an understanding of purchase, sales and general ledgers. You will also learn to use accounting software and to develop the professional skills and behaviours needed to contribute effectively in the workplace.
In the Level 3 Advanced qualification you will master more complex accounting disciplines including financial processes, advanced bookkeeping, final accounts and ethical practices for accountants. You will also understand business issues regarding VAT and management accounting costing techniques This qualification further delivers software skills through spreadsheet training for accounting.
Students would need five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including English. You would also need GCSE Maths at grade 6.
In Level 2 all five units are assessed through online exams. Three of these exam results will be available the same day with the remaining two results available after six weeks.
In Level 3, again all five units are assessed online. Four exam results are available the same day while the remaining result is available after six weeks.
Both levels have a pass mark of 70% and are graded as Pass (worth 40 UCAS points), Merit (worth 48 UCAS points) or Distinction (worth 56 UCAS points).
AAT qualifications are recognised by employers as practical and technical qualifications that prepare students for the world of work and for working specifically in accountancy and finance roles. AAT qualifications are universally respected and internationally recognised, representing the highest standards of professionalism. An AAT qualification is a route to some of the most in-demand skills in the world, and provides students with a professional status to be proud of.
If you successfully complete the Level 3 qualification, you can apply for AAT associate bookkeeping membership and achieve professional AATQB status. If you are considering going on to study at university, this qualification will also attract UCAS points.
HARWINDER JAGPAL
Harwinder has been teaching students aged 16+ for 15 years and has a Chartered Institute of Management Accountants qualification. She gained her Economics degree from Birmingham City University and has taught AAT Level 2, 3 & 4, A Level Accounts, BTEC Level 2 & 3 Business, as well as OCR Book-keeping. Before training as a Further Education lecturer she worked as an assistant accountant, financial analyst and office manager.