Foundation Certificate Accounting (AAT)

This course is designed to provide you with a range of skills and knowledge of basic accounting principles and techniques, from costing and double entry bookkeeping to computerised accounting. It is ideal for those who are new to finance or for those wanting a career change. You will attend college for one day or one evening per week where a tutor will provide guided learning, and support you in class. Professional accounting text books are essential to complement your study. You will have five computer-based examinations to take which are spread throughout the academic year. These are set and marked by AAT. If you are aged 16-19 and wish to complete this qualification, you must do so as part of an apprenticeship programme.

This qualification 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. Bookkeeping Transactions - This unit introduces students to the double-entry bookkeeping system and the associated documents and processes. Students will reach the stage of extracting an initial trial balance before any adjustments are made.

Bookkeeping Controls This unit is about control accounts, journals and methods of payment. It takes students through reconciliation processes and the use of the journal to the stage of redrafting the trial balance, following initial adjustments. Elements of Costing Students will understand the importance of the costing system as a source of information for internal management decision making. Working Effectively in Finance This unit will help students to develop the professional skills and behaviours needed in the workplace. While this unit is set in the context of the finance function, these skills are transferable to many other working environment.

Using Accounting Software This unit provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to carry out typical bookkeeping transactions and tasks using accounting software. In the modern business environment, processing data and information into accounting software is a necessary task in most finance roles. This unit teaches students the practical steps for processing accounting information electronically and will allow students to reinforce their understanding of the sequence in which bookkeeping tasks are carried out.

Teaching & assessment

This course includes lectures, seminars and exam practice. Each of the AAT units are assessed through external exams. The assessments are set and marked by AAT. They are computer based, and each exam has a specific time limit. The exams must be taken at an approved centre or venue under controlled conditions. Students will be provided with an overall grade for the qualification (Pass, Merit, or Distinction).

Interview Instructions

You will be invited into the College for an informal discussion.

Entry Criteria

There are no formal entry requirements. However, it is important that you have basic numeracy, literacy and IT skills before you start the qualification. Competence in accounting depends upon an ability to deal with figures and communicate effectively.