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Accounting

The level 2 certificate will give you a broad and thorough introduction to the accounting function. This introductory level is where you'll get to develop your skills in finance administration, eg double-entry bookkeeping, basic costing principles, and purchase, sales and general ledgers.

You will be required to reach competence in four units:

  • Introduction to Bookkeeping
  • Principles of Bookkeeping Controls
  • Principles of Costing
  • The Business Environment.
  • Entry requirements

    The level 2 certificate is open to all regardless of educational background and has no minimum entry requirement. However, you will need to be reasonably competent in basic Maths and the English language and we will do a basic skills/competency check before you start the course.

    If you already have relevant work experience or qualifications you may want to start at the Level 3 diploma. The AAT has developed an online Skillcheck to test your accounting knowledge and, depending on your score, it will guide you towards the appropriate entry level. Visit Skillcheck on the AAT website.

  • Who is the course for?

    This qualification is the first step to a successful career in accounting and finance. It combines the theoretical knowledge required for accountancy with practical skills and it is this emphasis on skills that makes AAT highly valued and respected in the workplace.

    This AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) course is an entry-level accounting qualification, ideal for anyone who is seeking an introduction to basic accounting principles and skills.

    This flexible course is delivered in partnership with Mindful Education, and combines online learning with face-to-face lessons in the classroom.

    This Level 2 course is part-funded, so the cost for students is reduced. On successful completion of this course, you might be eligible for a fully funded Level 3 course.

  • Study methods

    The teaching on this course will involve lectures, discussions and lots of worked examples. You will also spend time practising using a PC for various modules, for example, computerised accounting.

    Students will be expected to match the hours taught in the classroom with private study and to complete any homework set. There will be regular testing of knowledge in the classroom.

    All modules are assessed through computerised exams. Throughout the course your lecturer will record your progress and provide informal, regular feedback.

  • How is the course assessed?

    This course is assessed through computer-based exams and a synoptic assessment, which draws on and assesses knowledge and understanding from across the qualification.

  • More information

    Once enrolled, you will be required to register with AAT and pay the student membership fee directly to AAT. For further information, please contact our Information, Advice and Guidance team on 020 8607 8000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

    Please note: Books, exams and AAT registration is included in the cost.

    Please note: Resits will be charged. Funding may be available depending on your circumstances.

  • Where Next – Job Opportunities

    On completion of Level 2, you would qualify to work as an Accounts Assistant, in Accounts Payable, as an Accounts Receivable Clerk, or as a Cashier Assistant dealing with petty cash and expenses. You would also qualify for many bookkeeping positions. If you are self-employed, you should be able to keep your own accounting records. If you wish to continue your study, you should move on to the AAT Accounting Level 3 Diploma.

  • Where Next – Further Studies

    On completion of Level 2, you would qualify to work as an Accounts Assistant, in Accounts Payable, as an Accounts Receivable Clerk, or as a Cashier Assistant dealing with petty cash and expenses. You would also qualify for many bookkeeping positions.

    If you are self-employed, you should be able to keep your own accounting records. If you wish to continue your study, you should move on to the AAT Accounting Level 3.
    On successful completion of this course, you can progress to higher levels of the AAT Accounting Qualifications (Level 3 and then on to Level 4). Under the National Skills Fund initiative, you might be eligible for a fully funded Level 3 course.

    Alternatively, you can apply for an advanced learner loan to cover the cost of your Level 3 study. Please ask a member of college staff for more information.

  • How to apply

    To apply for a course either click the APPLY NOW button - fill out the form online and submit

    OR download an application form here and post it to the address on the form.
    When we have received your application we will contact you to arrange an interview time.

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About this course

Part Time

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