Accounting and bookkeeping qualifications for your staff
A qualification to fit everyone
What skills does your finance team need?
We award 80% of all vocational accounting and finance qualifications in the UK. More than 80,000 people a year across all industries worldwide train for AAT qualifications.
Train your staff with us
Professional growth is vital for your employees. You can help by providing opportunities for staff to develop the knowledge, skills and resources to be successful in their role and career. Quality employer support increases employee engagement, motivation and job satisfaction and plays a key role in talent retention.
We'll help you support your finance staff, enabling them to be the best they can be for themselves, for the growth of your business and to raise accountancy standards.
AAT accounting qualifications
Our internationally recognised accounting qualifications are based on real-world accounting knowledge that your staff can use from day one. Each takes six to 18 months to complete.
Level 2 Certificate in Accounting
How long it takes on average: 6–12 months, depending on the student and mode of study
Level 2 (Level 6 in Scotland)
Typical job opportunities: accounts administrator, accounts assistant, trainee accounting technician
Level 3 Diploma in Accounting
How long it takes on average: 9–12 months, depending on the student and mode of study
Level 3 (Level 7 in Scotland)
Typical job opportunities: accounts payable clerk, assistant accountant, audit trainee, bookkeeper, credit controller, finance assistant, payroll administrator, tax assistant
This qualification can be used as a route to AAT bookkeeping membership (AATQB).
Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting
How long it takes on average: 12–18 months, depending on the student and mode of study
Level 4 (Level 8 in Scotland)
Typical job opportunities: accounts payable and expenses supervisor, assistant financial accountant, commercial analyst, cost accountant, payroll manager, senior bookkeeper, senior finance officer, tax supervisor
This qualification can be used as a route to AAT full membership (MAAT).
Students can start with any qualification depending on their existing skills and experience. If they already have some accounting experience, they should take the AAT Skillcheck test to find out the best qualification to start with.
AAT bookkeeping qualifications
These short qualifications will give your staff the essential bookkeeping skills for your business. Each qualification takes just six to 12 weeks to complete.
Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping
How long it takes on average: 6–12 weeks, depending on the student and mode of study
Level 1
Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping
How long it takes on average: 12 weeks, depending on the student and mode of study
Level 2
Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping
How long it takes on average: 6 months, depending on the student and mode of study
Level 3
This qualification can be used as a route to AAT bookkeeping member (AATQB) status.
AAT business skills qualification
Level 1 Award in Business Skills
Perfect for those taking their first step on the career ladder.
How long it takes on average: 12 weeks, depending on the student and mode of study
Level 1
Why choose AAT qualifications for your staff?
Internationally recognised: AAT qualifications are based on practical accounting knowledge your staff can use from day one: a highly respected sign of commitment and excellence. Our bookkeeping and small business qualifications work for employees and employers, delivering key business skills.
A sound investment: our qualifications are designed to the highest industry standards and deliver practical accounting and finance skills to meet today's challenges. An efficient, lean and motivated finance team will make a real difference to the bottom line when budgets are tight.
Flexible learning: AAT qualifications are designed to fit around your needs and minimise disruption to your team. With full-time or part-time courses, day release and evening study, and online distance learning, our flexible study options mean your staff can study when it's most convenient.
Practical finance skills: We consult with major employers throughout the qualifications development process, so they deliver practical, relevant accounting skills specifically designed to meet business needs. AAT students add value to your finance team even before they're qualified.
Excellent progression opportunities: AAT accounting qualifications offer progression from entry-level accounting basics up to specialist financial knowledge for managerial roles. Each one builds on skills gained in the previous one. When they finish they can progress to chartered accountancy.
Pass rates and study support: Our training providers work hard to deliver excellent pass rates for AAT students, offering a range of support, materials and online resources. We also provide extensive e-learning and study support, including practice assessments.
Supporting your staff through full-time study
Full-time AAT courses are a big commitment, but students often qualify sooner than part-time students or distance learners. Employers have a key role in helping staff with their on-the-job learning.
Provide time and space to study: many organisations find that giving their staff paid study leave to attend classes, revise or sit assessments boosts their study success.
Work experience and mentoring: shadowing colleagues, and placements or job swaps in different departments gives students the chance to master the skills they've learned during AAT training. Appointing a mentor for AAT students can also help their confidence and understanding as they train.
Allow time to attend AAT branch events and other specialist events: students can take part in a wide range of courses and events at our regional branches. Many of these focus on specific topics and relevant issues, such as tax changes after the Budget or new financial legislation.
Contact us about
AAT training for your staff
Speak to one of our helpful advisors on
+44 (0)20 3735 2434. You can also email us or request a call back.
Our lines are open Monday to Friday 09.00–17.00 UK time.
