The AAT Certificate in Accounting covers a broad range of core accounting skills, as well as accountancy-related business skills and communications and personal skills. It comprises nine mandatory units (330 guided learning hours):
• Bookkeeping Transactions
• Bookkeeping Controls
• Elements of Costing
• Using Accounting Software
• Work Effectively in Finance
• Business Communications and Personal Skills
• Developing Lifelong Learning Skills
• Introduction to Business and Company Law
• Introduction to Payroll.
Working in accountancy requires good communication skills, information technology skills and an understanding of the business environment, as well as an understanding of daily finance/accounting functions. The purpose of this qualification is to ensure that students are well rounded and well prepared to progress into a career in business, finance or professional accountancy, or into further education.
All of the units within the qualification are mandatory. Six units are assessed individually in end-of-unit assessments. This qualification also includes a combined unit assessment, which draws two units together in one assessment, and a synoptic assessment that draws on and assesses knowledge and understanding from across a number of units.
A student completing this qualification will develop accountancy skills in double-entry bookkeeping and basic costing, as well as an understanding of purchase, sales and general ledgers. Students will learn to use accounting software and to develop the professional skills and behaviours needed to contribute effectively in the workplace. Working in accountancy requires good communication skills, IT skills and an understanding of the business environment, all of which are covered by this qualification.
The AAT Foundation Diploma in Accounting and Business also develops additional business skills that have particular relevance to those working in accountancy, finance and general business roles. Students are introduced to the payroll function and learn how to calculate basic pay. Students are also introduced to elements of commercial law that might have an impact on them when working in accountancy, such as contract law, employment law and company law. In addition, students will further develop their business communication and personal skills and will learn how to manage their personal and professional development through lifelong learning.
