About the course
The Level 2 Certificate in Accounting provides confidence and skills in manual tasks, such as double-entry bookkeeping. It also introduces processes related to VAT, reconciliation and trial balances, offering a great entry point for anyone wanting to start a career in accountancy or finance. It may also support career progression for those already in employment by formally recognising their skills in manual bookkeeping.
This qualification is intended for those either working or aspiring to work, in a bookkeeping position to gain an understanding of the processing role. It is the progression route through the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) qualifications for those with AAT Level 1 Access, or for those without the experience of double entry bookkeeping. The course is delivered by an experienced, supportive team of qualified and experienced staff at West Suffolk College, Ipswich.
Is there funding?
The course is either Co-funded or fully funded. If you are in receipt of any benefits or low wage (less than £25,000 (£30,491 for CPCA) gross per annum), then the course will be fully funded. If either of these are not applicable, then the course fee £400 would be payable. This can be paid by credit or with debit card or via invoice to an Employer.
Will I have to do any work at home?
Yes, we recommend spending as much time studying at home as you do in the classroom. So, if you spend one day per week in class, you should also spend one day on self-study spread across the week.
What will I need to provide?
A basic calculator and something to write with. You will require the use of a computer outside of the classes.
Are there any other costs?
Yes, you are also required to register with AAT - the current fee is £68. Any re-sits of AAT exams are charged at rate of £80 per sitting.
Non-completion of the course (including the taking of examinations) or failure to attend 3 consecutive sessions without notification may result in a charge of £185.
Entry requirements
Unlike other qualifications there are no entry requirements with AAT and you don't need relevant work experience. This means that this course is ideal if you are leaving school, returning to work or thinking about a change in career.
Useful strengths include confidence with numbers, time management, attention to detail and an ability to problem solve.
Qualifications
AAT Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping, awarded in conjunction with the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT).
What you'll learn (core modules)
The course covers the following two modules:
Introduction to Bookkeeping
This unit provides students with an understanding of manual and digital bookkeeping systems, including the associated documents and processes. Students will learn the basic principles that underpin double-entry bookkeeping systems.
Percentage contribution of this unit to the overall qualification grade: 50%.
Learning outcomes
Understand how to set up bookkeeping systems.
Process customer transactions.
Process supplier transactions.
Process receipts and payments.
Process transactions into the ledger accounts.
Principles of Bookkeeping Controls
This unit builds on the knowledge and skills acquired from studying Introduction to Bookkeeping and explores control accounts, journals and reconciliations. Students will develop the ability to prepare the value added tax (VAT) control accounts as well as the receivables and payables ledger accounts. They'll use the journal to record a variety of transactions, including the correction errors. Students will be able to redraft the initial trial balance, following adjustments. Percentage contribution of this unit to the overall qualification grade: 50%.
Learning outcomes:
Use control accounts.
Reconcile a bank statement with the cash book.
Use the journal.
Produce trial balances.
How will I be assessed?
Your tutor will assess your progress in a variety of ways, by checking your understanding in the classroom, setting mock exams and setting questions. The exams at the end of each unit are externally marked by AAT and you will receive a score each time you sit an exam. The pass rate for all exams is 70%.
Where is the course delivered? (facilities/classrooms)
In the classroom, face to face at West Suffolk College Fore Street, Ipswich, IP4 1JW.
Where will this course take me?
You may wish to progress to the AAT Level 3 Bookkeeping, or this qualification could enable you to find one of the following job roles:
Trainee bookkeeper
Finance assistant
Accounts administrator
Clerical assistantHow much will it cost?
The course costs £400.00 although there is government funding available. Please see the details above or send your enquiry to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and we will clarify if you are eligible.
If you need help with funding
The course is either Co-funded or fully funded. If you are in receipt of any benefits or low wage (less than £25,000 (£30,491 for CPCA) gross per annum), then the course will be fully funded. If either of these are not applicable, then the course fee £400 would be payable. This can be paid by credit or with debit card or via invoice to an Employer.
I'm interested. What should I do now?
Please send in your enquiry to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and we will contact you shortly.
Days & times
Starting 07/01/2025
Tuesday 09:15 - 16:30