About the course

This AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) Foundation 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. Please see information on progression.

The course starts on Wednesday 11 September 2024

Please note: classroom attendance is fortnightly, on every other Wednesday.

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course. Previous knowledge of accounting or a Level 1 Bookkeeping qualification would be advantageous but not essential. 

How much does it cost?

The fees for this course are: 

Tuition Fees: £1,054 (Fee includes tuition, AAT membership fees and one assessment fee per unit).

Examination fees covering one sitting of each examination: £244

All fees are free if you are:

• Unemployed, in receipt of benefits and looking for work or 
• Are in work and earn less than £25,000 a year.

Why study?

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.

On successful completion of this course, you will be awarded an AAT Level 2 Foundation Certificate in Accounting. This internationally recognised AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) qualification enables those working in accounting or those who looking to pursue accountancy as a career to gain knowledge, practical experience and the all-important certification often sought by employers.

Study Method – Online and On Campus

We have partnered with Mindful Education to deliver this course through our Online and On Campus model. 

Online, you will study award-winning video lessons, which are available on demand, and can be viewed from your phone, tablet or computer – meaning you can choose how, when and where you want to study. Lessons last for around 45 minutes and are accompanied by animations and motion graphics to bring concepts to life. Practice questions, downloadable lesson materials and interactive case studies help to enhance the learning experience further and learners should expect to spend around 4-5 hours studying independently online each week. 

On campus, you benefit from regular classes with a college tutor – without having to commit to attending multiple evenings each week. Your tutor will review what you have learnt during your online lessons and will be on hand to provide guidance on progress and assessment. Regular discussion with classmates will help to reinforce key points while also providing the additional support and motivation that comes from being part of a group. 

Fortnightly college classes will be held every other Wednesday.

Where will this course take me?

On successful completion of this course, you can progress to higher levels of the AAT Accounting Qualification (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. 

Career opportunities

The skills and knowledge you will gain throughout this qualification will qualify you for roles including Accounts Assistant, Finance Assistant, Credit Control Assistant or Purchase Ledger Clerk.

Core modules

The Level 2 course covers a range of key areas, including: 

• Introduction to Bookkeeping (ITBK)
• Principles of Bookkeeping Controls (POBC)
• Principles of Costing Techniques (PCTN)
• The Business Environment Synoptic (BENV/BESY)

You will also develop business communications and lifelong learning skills, applying what you learn on the course to the wider industry context.

How will I be 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.