AAT Levels 2 & 3 in Accounting with Work Experience

AAT Level 2 in Accounting Syllabus

The Level 2 Certificate in Accounting establishes the fundamentals of financial accounting. This level has four units that equip you with foundational knowledge and skills to carry out key accounting procedures and maintain accurate financial records. These units are:

• Introduction to Bookkeeping
• Principles of Bookkeeping
• Principles of Costing
• Business Environment

Introduction to Bookkeeping

The Introduction to Bookkeeping focuses on understanding the fundamentals of double-entry bookkeeping systems. You'll learn the basics of recording financial transactions, including preparing books of prime entry and ledgers.

Principles of Bookkeeping Controls

Principles of Bookkeeping Controls cover the control procedures, systems, and practices essential for maintaining accuracy and preventing errors in bookkeeping. You'll learn about control accounts, journals, bank reconciliation, and trial balances.

Principles of Costing

Principles of Costing teaches the tools and techniques to support cost calculations. You'll learn how to determine the cost of products, calculate inventory costs, understand cost behaviours, and accurately allocate costs within an organisation.

The Business Environment

The Business Environment tackles the key factors influencing business operations and organisational performance. This unit discusses the various economic, legal, and social factors affecting business activities. You'll learn about the dynamics of market conditions, regulatory frameworks, and competitive landscapes.

AAT Level 3 in Accounting Syllabus

The Level 3 Diploma in Accounting further explores the core accounting concepts. This level has four units that deepen your understanding of financial and management accounting, preparing you for higher-level responsibilities in the finance sector. These units are:

• Business Awareness

• Financial Accounting: Preparing Financial Statements

• Management Accounting Techniques

• Tax Processes for Businesses

Business Awareness

Business Awareness discusses the various concepts about the business structure and its external and internal environment. You'll explore how different business functions interact, the importance of business ethics, and how to assess the overall business environment for effective management.

Financial Accounting: Preparing Financial Statements

Financial Accounting: Preparing Financial Statements involves the processes and standards for creating accurate financial reports. You'll learn how to compile balance sheets, profit and loss statements, and cash flow statements according to established accounting principles.

Management Accounting Techniques

The Management Accounting Techniques unit focuses on the methods and practices used to analyse financial data for internal management purposes. You'll gain insights into attributing cost, cash management, and supporting short-term decision-making processes.

Tax Processes for Businesses

The Tax Processes for Businesses unit explores tax processes in VAT and payroll that influence the daily operations of businesses. You'll learn the knowledge and technical skills needed to comply with the laws and practices that govern VAT and payroll.

Format

AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting has three objective-type tests and one synoptic assessment. Meanwhile, the AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting has four objective-type tests you must pass before earning the qualification.

The objective tests are computer-based and assess all component learning outcomes you have covered in the unit. Meanwhile, the synoptic assessment is also a computer-based format that assesses your knowledge across all units.

• Exams: Online exam available (additional cost)
• Exams: Available via a test centre (additional cost)

Duration

Below are the duration for each exam in AAT Level 2:

• Introduction to Bookkeeping (90 min)
• Principles of Bookkeeping Controls (90 min)
• Principles of Costing (90 min)
• The Business Environment (120 min)

Here are the exam durations for AAT assessments in AAT Level 3:

• Business Awareness (150 min)
• Financial Accounting: Preparing Financial Statements (150 min)
• Management Accounting Techniques (150 min)
• Tax Processes for Businesses (90 min)
  
  

Availability

All AAT exams from these levels can be taken at AAT testing centres. Make sure to shop around to get the most competitive rates and locations for your exams. We'll provide you with all the support and resources you need to prepare for your exams. (See Additional Benefits tab).

You must become an AAT member to sit your AAT assessments. AAT student membership and exam fees are separate from the course price.

Objective tests are computer-marked, so you'll receive your results within 48 hours via MyAAT. The synoptic assessment is human-marked, so you'll receive the results within six weeks of the last day of the synoptic window.

The AAT Level 2 & 3 Accounting Career Academy with Work Experience has no formal entry requirements and is beginner-friendly for aspiring accountants. Anyone can enrol in the AAT Career Academy programme, even if you are a complete beginner and have no background in accounting.

So, if you want a structured pathway that combines AAT training, qualifications, and remote work experience from real projects, this course is for you!

To enrol in our AAT Level 2 & 3 Career Academy with Work Experience programme, we recommend that you:

• Are at least 16 years old or have the consent of a parent or guardian.
• Have a solid understanding of the English language.
• Are comfortable with basic Mathematics.
• Have access to a PC or laptop (This course is compatible with both Mac and Windows).

While this qualification is delivered online, we also include the textbooks to assist you with your studies. (see Additional Benefits tab below).

• Guaranteed Work Experience: Gain certified working experience with leading companies across various industries. Our programme ensures you work on live projects that align with your career goals.

• Extended Job Opportunity: Typically, 1 in 4 students are offered a job.

• Comprehensive Accounting Courses: Our online courses cover all the fundamental concepts, accounting principles, practical skills development, and industry best practices.

• Accountancy Qualifications: Earn an internationally recognised AAT accounting qualification that enhances employability in the job market.

• Professional Designation: Upgrade to professional membership and earn your AAT Qualified Bookkeeper designation after passing all your AAT assessments.

• Employability Preparation: Receive employability preparation services to enhance job prospects, including CV writing, LinkedIn profile and cover letter optimisation, and growth masterclasses.

• High Exam Pass Rates: We are one of the UK's leading AAT training providers, with a pass rate of 87.2% in AAT Level 2 and 84.8% in AAT Level 3.

• Interest-free payment options: Our interest-free payment options make your education more accessible so you can study the course and start your learning journey without worries.

• Industry-leading eLearning Platform: Access our eLearning platform, which integrates the official courseware, learning materials, digital resources, and all the support you need to finish your training.

• Live Classrooms: Learn from award-winning instructors who conduct weekly sessions online, making studying in your own space easy and convenient.

• Flexible learning: Study AAT as you can access the course in our eLearning platform for 12 and 15.

• Sage Course: Gain access to Sage Accounting and learn computerised accounting skills.

• Sage Certification: Earn your Sage Certificate upon completing the course and passing the final assessment.

• Study Books: Receive physical copies of Kaplan textbooks as additional study materials delivered straight to your door.

• Responsive Tutor Support: Request unlimited support from the 2024 AAT Tutor of the Year, who aims to assist you with your learning and respond to you within 24-48 hours.

• Ongoing Professional Development: Receive support from your success coach and benefit from our weekly feedback loop throughout your AAT journey.

How Does AAT Accounting Career Academy with Work Experience Work?

Our AAT Accounting Career Academy is a comprehensive programme that combines guaranteed work experience with our comprehensive AAT online course and industry-standard qualifications. Here's a detailed look at how our AAT Accounting Career Academy with Work Experience works:

1. Online Training and Live Classrooms

The training phase consists of AAT courses, Sage Accounting courses, and live classrooms from award-winning tutors, which train you with fundamental concepts and accounting skills.

2. AAT Exam and Certification

Earn your AAT qualification from the Association of Accounting Technicians after sitting your exams at an AAT testing centre.

3. Employability Preparation

We offer various employability preparation services to enhance job prospects, including CV writing, LinkedIn Bio optimisation, cover letter creation, and growth masterclasses.

4. Work Experience Placement

Engage in a 4-16 week remote work experience with host companies, working on real projects to enhance your practical skills and employability.

5. Support and Resources

Benefit from dedicated success coaches, 24/7 guidance, regular industry webinars, and weekly feedback loops.

6. Completion and Certification

Receive a certification of completion and an evaluation report upon finishing the programme that you can show to potential employers.

What are the Requirements for Getting Work Experience?

To qualify for the Career Academy's work experience, you must complete our training modules and exams. You must also be 18+ years old and speak English fluently and effectively so we can match you with a global company. 

How Long Will the AAT Level 2 & 3 Career Academy Programme Take?

Completing the AAT Level 2 & 3 training course depends on various factors, such as the preferred learning style, existing skills, prior knowledge in the industry, and the amount of time you can dedicate to studying each week.

On average, our students typically complete their AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting course within 6 to 9 months. They also usually complete their AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting course within 9 to 12 months. Upon successfully passing the exams and completing the required coursework, students can apply for the AAT professional membership and use the designatory letters AATQB beside their name.

Meanwhile, the work experience component takes 4 to 16 weeks, which you can take either full-time or part-time.

What Jobs Can I Apply for After My AAT Level 2 & 3 Career Academy Programme?

Completing our AAT Accounting Career Academy with Work and earning your AATQB designation can help you pursue various job roles in the accounting sector. Some of those positions include:

Accounts Administrator

An Accounts Administrator handles financial management and general administrative tasks such as maintaining financial records, processing invoices, and managing office budgets. Their annual salary is £24,000.

Finance Assistant

A Finance Assistant supports the finance department by managing financial records, processing transactions, and assisting in the preparation of financial reports. They play a crucial role in maintaining accurate financial data. The average annual salary for a Finance Assistant is £25,000.

Bookkeeper

A Bookkeeper supervises bookkeeping tasks, prepares financial statements, and manages complex accounts. They play a key role in ensuring accuracy in financial records and reporting. The average salary for a Bookkeeper is £27,000.

Accounts Assistant

Accounts Assistants support qualified accountants and finance teams by preparing financial documents, reconciling accounts, and managing data entry. The annual salary for an accounts assistant is £27,000.

Tax Assistant

Tax Assistants prepare and file tax returns, advise on tax regulations, and ensure compliance with current tax laws. They also support tax accountants in managing tax-related tasks. Their average annual salary is £29,000.

Assistant Accountant

An Assistant Accountant assists in preparing financial statements, performing reconciliations, and managing ledgers. They support senior accountants in ensuring the accuracy of financial records and compliance with accounting standards. The average salary for an Assistant Accountant is £30,000.

Payable and Expenses Supervisor

A Payable and Expenses Supervisor oversees the accounts payable process, ensuring that invoices are processed accurately and on time. They also manage expense reporting and ensure adherence to company policies. Their average salary is £30,000.

Payroll Supervisor

A Payroll Supervisor manages payroll systems, ensures timely and accurate processing of employee wages, and handles payroll-related queries. They also ensure compliance with tax and employment laws. Their average salary is £30,000.

Finance Officer

A Finance Officer oversees financial operations, prepares budgets, and manages financial reports. They ensure compliance with financial regulations and contribute to financial planning strategies. The average annual salary is £34,000.