AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting
AAT Level 2 courses to launch your accounting career
Flexible study options designed to fit your schedule
Gain essential, industry-recognised accounting and finance skills
Open doors to entry-level roles in bookkeeping and finance
Kickstart your accountancy career with the AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting at Reed Business School.
Perfect for those new to accountancy or looking to gain formal qualifications
Gain the knowledge to start you career with a solid foundation
Depending on you package choice, this could be completed in as little as 6 months
Learn essentials skills for roles such as Accounts Administrator, Accounts Assistant and Accounts Payable Clerk (with typical salaries from £22,000 to £36,000)
Have you already got some accounting experience? Test your knowledge with the AAT Skillcheck to ensure this is the best starting point for you
Market leading pass rates
Dedicated support from AAT qualified tutors
100% online, classroom and residential options
Globally recognised qualifications
AAT approved centre
Over 50 years delivering accounting qualifications
Course overview
- Duration : 9-12 months
Why is the AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting course right for you?
Gain the practical skills and knowledge you need to get started in accounting
Gain in confidence and expertise and enhance your career progression
Widely recognised qualification that improves your employability
83% of AAT members who have completed an AAT accounting qualification agree it has increased their earning potential (AAT Salary Survey 2023)
This qualification not only opens doors to new job opportunities but also sets you on a path to advance your career in accounting.
This course is suitable for you if you are:
New to accounting roles or looking to gain a formal qualification
Seeking to kickstart your career in accounting and keen to develop specialist knowledge, skills and understanding
Looking to step into entry-level roles such as Accounts Assistant, Bookkeeper or Accounts Payable Clerk
Keen to realise your full potential and increase your earning potential
Course details
Accounting isn’t just about numbers. It also requires a range of business and interpersonal skills to help your organisation, or your clients manage their finances effectively.
By enrolling in the AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting, you will earn a globally recognised AAT qualification, equipping you with the foundational skills you need in a variety of areas to help you become a successful entry level accountant.
You will explore topics ranging from double-entry bookkeeping, basic costing and an understanding of purchase, sales and general ledgers.
To be awarded the AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting, you’ll need to successfully complete four core units.
Key topics covered:
Setting up bookkeeping systems: understand the purpose of business documents, recording bookkeeping transactions, creating and using coding systems, and setting up bookkeeping systems.
Process customer transactions: calculate invoice and credit note amounts, record them in prime entry books, and process customer receipts.
Process supplier transactions: verify supplier invoices and credit notes, record them in prime entry books, and process supplier payments.
Process receipts and payments: record receipts and payments in analysed cash and petty cash books, balance them, and process recurring transactions.
Process transactions into ledger accounts: transfer data from prime entry books to ledgers, then total and balance the ledger accounts.
Find out more about Introduction to Bookkeeping
Key topics covered:
Use control accounts: produce and reconcile control accounts.
Reconcile a bank statement with the cash book: calculate invoice and credit note amounts, record them in prime entry books, and process customer receipts.
Use the journal: create journal entries for bookkeeping transactions and to correct errors, whether or not they are revealed by the trial balance.
Process trial balances: create an initial trial balance and adjust it as needed.
Find out more about Principles of Bookkeeping Controls
Key topics covered:
Cost recording system: understand the cost recording system within an organisation, collecting and classifying costs, using costing techniques, understanding financial accounting relationships, identifying income and expenditure sources, and recording labour and overheads.
Using cost recording techniques: calculate inventory costs and valuations, labour payments, overhead absorption rates, total and unit costs, and product costs.
Actual and budgeted costs: provide information on actual and budgeted costs and income, compare actual and budgeted costs and income, using exception reporting to highlight significant variances.
Supporting cost calculations: use tools and techniques to support cost calculations, input and format data, and use formulas for cost calculations.
Find out more about Principles of Costing
Key topics covered:
Principles of contract law: cover the classifications and sources of law, key features of contracts, and remedies for breach of contract.
External business environment: understand the economic environment, government control of the economy, and the competitive landscape.
Corporate social responsibility (CSR), ethics and sustainability: cover corporate social responsibility, sustainability, environmental issues, and the fundamental principles of ethics for accounting technicians.
Setting up different types of business entity: understand business ownership models, legal administration, and business formation.
Finance function within an organisation: analyse the various business functions, the role of finance, and how the finance team contributes to organisational success.
Communicating effectively and appropriate work formats: sourcing information, communicating it effectively, and planning workloads to meet organisational needs.
Importance of information to business operations: understand the role of information in finance and the importance of data and information security.
Find out more about The Business Environment
Before you start your course, you’ll complete an induction to help you prepare for the programme and get the most out of your learning.
Completing this AAT Level 2 qualification typically takes 6-12 months.
With 24/7 access to all our resources, you could complete your qualification in as little as 6 months, depending on your chosen package!
There are no formal requirements for this AAT Level 2 qualification, however for the best chance at success on this course and in your career, you’ll need to have a good standard of English and maths.
Our team will be happy to discuss these requirements with you, and which study method is right for you – get in touch today!
Flexible study options
To accommodate different learning preferences, we offer four delivery methods:
Flexible, live sessions accessible from any location.
Experience the flexibility of Live Online learning and engage in real-time, interactive sessions from anywhere. Achieve your goals without the commute!
Ideal for learners who want the flexibility to study from any location and full tutor support
Live interactive sessions online
Dynamic delivery and instant Q&A
Collaborative activities
Engaging real-time learning experience
Structured delivery plan
Networking opportunities (online)
Access to full tutor support (online)
Access to study books and online resources
Access to recorded sessions
Online assignments and exam preparation
Traditional face-to-face classes with experienced tutors. If you like the idea of learning in person, where you bounce around ideas with other learners, then our face-to-face classes are for you. Classes take place every few months at one of our many UK venues.
Ideal for learners who prefer traditional classroom settings
Face-to-face interaction
Convenient locations across the UK
Engaging in real-time learning experience
Structured delivery plan
Networking opportunities
In-person and online tutor support
Study books and online resources
Access to recorded sessions
In-class assignments and exam preparation
Our venues span London, Northampton, Birmingham, Newcastle, Cambridge, Little Compton, and many other locations. If you have a specific place in mind, reach out to us - we’d be happy to discuss options to suit your needs.
All the benefits of our Classroom delivery method and an immersive on-site learning experience in a unique, comfortable setting at our Cotswolds Manor.
Delivered at our iconic Manor, where you’ll get to know other learners, relax in our first-class accommodation and enjoy delicious homemade meals.
Ideal for learners wanting an immersive experience and in-person support
Unique learning environment: A picturesque location in the heart of the Cotswolds, ideal for focused study.
All-inclusive learning experience: Residential facilities and a relaxing, friendly atmosphere conducive to immersive study without distractions.
Engaging real-time learning: Small classroom-based sessions with peers and dedicated, experienced tutors who are subject specialists.
Structured delivery plan: In-class assignments, exam preparation, and a clear path to success.
Comprehensive resources: Study books, digital course materials, online resources, and access to recorded sessions for revision.
In-person and online tutor support: Receive expert guidance whenever needed.
Access to outstanding facilities: Benefit from state-of-the-art learning environments.
Networking opportunities: Connect with like-minded professionals and peers.
Market-leading pass rates: achieve top results with our expert support and resources
Comprehensive study materials: includes workbooks and activities
Highly rated tuitition: 4.6/5 on Coursecheck from hundreds of reviews
20+ years of experience: a trusted provider with proven AAT results
Trusted brand: decades of expertise in learning and recruitment
We offer three different study packages with varying levels of support – Essential, Enhanced, and Extensive.
The Essential package offers the most flexibility for self-motivated, independent learners to learn from provided books and two 30-45 minute online 1-2-1 workshops per month.
The Enhanced package offers learners who want some extra tutor support the ability to learn from provided books and two 60-90 minute online 1-2-1 workshops per month.
Extensive offers the most tutor support for learners who prefer structure and guidance to learn from the virtual learning environment and one 180 minute online group workshop per week.
Get your burning questions answered quickly
If you have a question about the VLE, AAT membership, workshops or anything else to do with your course, our training support team are here to help. You can call the support team whenever you need to, for as long as you’re on the programme. You can also arrange tutorials with our tutor team if there are other areas you need support with.
Students must successfully achieve the four mandatory unit assessments to achieve this qualification. These are normally completed at the end of each unit topic. All assessments in this qualification:
are set and marked by AAT
are computer based
are time-limited (each exam lasts for 90-120 minutes on this qualification)
are scheduled by training providers or assessment venues
take place at approved training providers and assessment venues under controlled conditions
We are an AAT Approved Assessment Venue. See below if you wish to book to sit your assessment at The Manor.
Availability of assessments
Unit assessments are available on demand throughout the year. Results for wholly computer-marked assessments are made available via MyAAT within 24 hours of submitting the assessment. Results from assessments with written elements can take up to 6 weeks.
Looking to book your exam with us?
You can download our AAT exam booking form here.
To pay for your course in full, simply enquire, call us on 016 0867 4224,[JK1] or complete the booking form and return to rbs.reed@reedbusinessschool.co.uk
We’ll provide you with all the details you need to complete the payment smoothly.
If your employer is paying for your course, then we can invoice them directly, so you don’t have to worry about trying to organise the payment yourself. You focus on your studies and we’ll take care of the rest.
Call our team of advisers today to get started!
If you're currently a student or considering AAT with us, you'll find all essential resources here, from course outlines to application forms.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact our support team. We're here to help ensure your success every step of the way. Remember to return your forms to rbs.reed@reedbusinessschool.co.uk.
Not sure where to start or where you can go next? Our Pathways to Success explain the different routes your accountancy journey can take.
Choose your study method
We offer a range of study methods to suit your lifestyle and budget.
Live Online (Essential)
Real-time, online classes with live tutors. Ideal for learners seeking flexibility.
Scheduled live sessions online
Direct support from tutors
Recorded sessions for later review
Live Online (Enhanced)
Real-time, online classes with live tutors. Ideal for learners seeking flexibility.
Scheduled live sessions online
Direct support from tutors
Recorded sessions for later review
Interactive online learning environment
Online Classroom (Extensive)
Enjoy a classroom experience from home. Ideal for learners seeking live online lessons.
Online classroom experience
Direct support from tutors
Recorded sessions for later review
Interactive online learning environment
Classroom (Moreton-in-Marsh)
In-person learning. Ideal for learners who prefer traditional classroom settings.
Face-to-face, classroom learning
Immediate feedback from tutors
Networking with fellow learners
Online resources for extra support
Convenient times and locations
Classroom (Liverpool)
In-person learning. Ideal for learners who prefer traditional classroom settings.
Face-to-face, classroom learning
Immediate feedback from tutors
Networking with fellow learners
Online resources for extra support
Convenient times and locations
Residential
In-person learning at our 17th-century Manor. Ideal for an immersive experience.
Unique learning environment
All-inclusive experience
Accommodation and meals
Outstanding facilities
On-site exam centre
Course price does not include accommodation fees. Rooms are available from £75 per night.
From £2000.00 (inc VAT)
Looking to earn this qualification through an apprenticeship?
Our AAT Level 2 Accounts/Finance Assistant Apprenticeship option allows you to develop professional skills while working, with the added benefit of government funding for eligible employers.
It’s a practical, cost-effective way to earn a recognised qualification and gain valuable work experience simultaneously.
Enquire today to find out more!
Why Reed Business School?
When you learn with Reed Business School, you’ll benefit from:
Market-leading pass rates: achieve top results with our expert support and resources.
Proven success: our students consistently perform at the highest level.
Experienced tutors: subject specialists guide you to pass your qualifications.
Proven teaching formula: helping thousands of students succeed.
Flexible delivery options: classroom, online, residential, and self-paced study available.
Convenient study: learn anytime, anywhere on your laptop, phone, or tablet.
Additional study materials: includes revision cards and question bank.
Mock exams & recorded lessons: accessible via Microsoft Teams.
Comprehensive materials: texts, revision cards, and mock exams included.
Highly rated: 4.6/5 on CourseCheck from hundreds of reviews.
50+ years of experience: a trusted provider with proven AAT results.
On-site exam centre: sit exams in a familiar, convenient setting.
Trusted brand: decades of expertise in learning and recruitment.
See what our learners have to say...
Testimonial
Market-leading pass rates
Frequently asked questions
The AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting is an entry-level qualification from the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT), designed for individuals who want to start a career in accounting or finance. It provides a strong foundation in essential accounting principles, financial processes, and bookkeeping skills.
There are four exams for the AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting, one for each unit.
Introduction to Bookkeeping – covers double-entry bookkeeping, financial transactions, and ledger accounts.
Principles of Bookkeeping Controls – focuses on control accounts, journals, and reconciling bank statements.
Principles of Costing – teaches basic cost recording and analysis.
The Business Environment – provides an understanding of how businesses operate, including ethics, sustainability, and communication in accounting.
With an AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting, you’ll have a strong foundation in basic accounting and bookkeeping, allowing you to pursue entry-level roles or further study. Job opportunities include: Accounts Assistant, Bookkeeper, Finance Assistant, Payroll Administrator and many more.
You can also use the qualification for further study such as the AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting.
It typically takes 9 to 12 months to complete the AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting, depending on your study pace.
There are no formal entry requirements for AAT Level 2, but basic Maths and English skills are recommended. An interest in accounting and finance, plus access to a computer for study and accounting software, can also be helpful.
The AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting is roughly equivalent to GCSEs (grades A-C or 9-4)* or a Level 2 NVQ in the UK education system.
Useful links
If you're currently a student or considering AAT with us, you'll find find all essential resources here, from course outlines to application forms.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact our support team. We're here to help ensure your success every step of the way. Remember to return your forms to rbs.reed@reedbusinessschool.co.uk.
Reviews from our learners
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Trusted by leading accountancy practices
Top organisations trust Reed Business School for their accountancy training and development.
Not sure which option is right for you?
Speak to one of our specialist learning advisers who will talk you through your options.
At Reed Business School, professional qualifications and apprenticeships provider, we support learners and organisations with flexible study options.