AAT Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping (AQ2022)

The AAT Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping provides a basic foundation in core accounting principles and skills. The learning outcomes are as follows:

• Understand the role of the bookkeeper.
• Understand financial transactions.
• Process customer and supplier transactions.
• Process receipts and payments.
• Understand the benefits and risks of using accounting software to complete bookkeeping tasks

All of the learning outcomes are assessed via a single computer-based exam. On successfully passing this exam, you will achieve the AAT L1 Award in Bookkeeping

The AAT Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping is delivered exclusively through our Lite package, which provides full access to core learning materials and ad-hoc email tutor support.

As an introductory course, Level 1 is designed for independent study and does not include live or weekly online sessions. This makes it an ideal, low-cost entry point for learners who are just starting out and want a flexible, self-paced experience.

All of our course tiers include high-quality learning materials designed to support your success. You’ll receive printed course books delivered to your door, full access to our user-friendly online learning platform, and a personalised Individual Learning Plan (ILP) to guide your studies. The platform hosts interactive resources, practice activities, and structured content mapped to the AAT syllabus—ensuring you stay on track and focused at every stage of your qualification.

The AAT Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping is suitable for anyone in the following situations:

• Absolute beginners with no previous accounting experience
• Anyone exploring a career in accountancy, finance or business administration
• Individuals preparing to study the AAT Level 2 accounting qualification

If you're unsure which level is right for you, we encourage you to complete the AAT Skillscheck – a free online assessment designed to evaluate your current knowledge and recommend the most suitable starting point.

👉 Take the AAT Skillscheck here: https://www.aat.org.uk/qualifications-and-courses/skillcheck

This short quiz takes around 30 minutes and is a useful tool to help ensure you start your AAT journey at the appropriate level for your experience and confidence.

The AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting opens the door to a wide range of entry-level roles in the finance and accounting sector. It’s ideal if you're looking to start a career in accounting or gain practical skills to support a broader business role.

With further qualifications and experience, career prospects expand significantly, with potential roles including:

• Assistant Accountan

• Bookkeeper

• Payroll Administrator

• Finance Officer

• Accounts Payable/Receivable Clerk

These roles exist across nearly every industry, offering you flexibility and variety in your career path.

Once you’ve completed Level 1, you’ll be well prepared to progress onto the AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting or the AAT Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping which builds on your knowledge and develops more advanced skills such as double-entry bookkeeping and basic accounting principles. This is a natural next step for anyone aiming to move into roles with greater responsibility or work towards full AAT Accounting Technician status.

With each level of the AAT qualification, you increase your earning potential, employability, and pathway to professional recognition—potentially leading all the way to full membership of AAT (MAAT) or further qualifications such as ACCA, CIMA, or ICAEW.