Where, when and how will I study? This is a two year programme, 16 hours per week, based in the Sci Tech Centre, Barnsley. Second year progression is based on successful completion of the first year. What subject areas will I study? Level 2 Basic Accounting 1&2 covers all aspects of double entry bookkeeping up to and including preparing a trial balance. Basic Costing is an introduction to costing methods. Working Effectively in Accounting and Finance covers how to prioritise workloads and work as a team as well as looking at personal development and work policies and procedures. Computerised Accounts is an introduction to Sage; inputting data and producing reports. Level 3 Costs and Revenues looks at costing methods, allocation of costs and decision making in the long and short term. Accounts Preparation 1&2 covers how to prepare sole trader and partnership accounts. Spreadsheets is about using Excel software to present financial information. Indirect Tax covers aspects of VAT and how to prepare a VAT return. Professional Ethics in Accounting and Finance looks at your responsibilities as a trainee accountant and how you will be expected to conform to current legislation. Level 4 Limited Company Accounts involves preparing limited company accounts and interpreting and reporting information from financial statements. Financial Performance looks at costing methods, preparing costs and interpreting and reporting the information. Budgeting looks at using various budgeting methods and analysing and interpreting data. Internal Control and Accounting Systems is a written project of 3,500-4,000 words based around making changes to an existing accounting system. You will also study 2 further areas from the following; Business Tax, Personal Tax, Auditing, Credit Management , Cash Management Following the successful completion of Level 4 you will be invited to a formal graduation ceremony held in October/November. With relevant experience and AAT approval you could also use the letters MAAT after your name.

Industry, self-employment or further study. Universities and professional bodies such as the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) offer exemptions to those who are AAT qualified.