AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting: Principles of Costing
In the Principles of Costing module, you'll be introduced to basic costing principles, helping you understand how costing systems aid in planning, decision-making, and cost control. You will learn to cost materials, labour, and overheads, classify costs for management decisions, and understand cost behaviour at different output levels. You will also gain skills in building unit product costs and using budgetary control systems to compare actual and budgeted costs, identifying variances and their causes.
Study from£395 (inc VAT)
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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
Overview
Why is the AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting course right for you?
Gain the practical skills and knowledge you need to succeed 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
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
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
What you'll study
The Principles of Costing module teaches basic costing principles, showing how costing systems help in planning and decision-making.
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.
By completing this module, you will learn to cost materials, labour, and overheads, classify costs, understand cost behaviour, build unit costs, and use budgetary control to compare actual and budgeted costs, identifying variances.
Completing this AAT Level 2 qualification typically takes 9-12 months.
With 24/7 access to all our resources, you could complete your qualification in as little as 9 months!
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!
Delivery options
With our wide range of flexible delivery options, we provide tailored support for each student’s needs, ensuring a productive and enriching learning experience for every stage of their accountancy career.
To accommodate different learning preferences, we offer four delivery methods:
Study whenever and wherever suits you. On-demand learning offers ultimate flexibility, allowing learners to access high-quality course materials anytime, anywhere.
Ideal for independent learners who want flexible, self-paced learning to fit around their busy lives.
Self-paced learning
Digital materials and videos
Remote accessibility
Self-paced progression
Email tutor support
Flexible access
Self-assessment quizzes
Access to recorded sessions
Optional 1-2-1 tutor support and face-to-face or live online revision classes (additional fee applies)
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
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
Get all the benefits of in-person learning, all from the comfort of your home. Great if you need a little more flexibility when it comes to location, but still want the opportunity to interact with other learners.
Ideal for learners who want the classroom experience from the comfort of their home
Live classroom sessions streamed online
Dynamic delivery and instant Q&A
Collaborative activities
Engaging real-time learning experience
Structured delivery plan
Networking opportunities (online)
Online tutor support
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.
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.
Support & Assessments
1:1 support from your personal advisor
Your personal adviser will work with you throughout your AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting. Together you’ll agree on a plan for your programme, develop a study schedule and prepare for your assessments, giving you the best chance of excelling at your course and landing your dream finance role.
24/7 access to all our learning resources
Our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) gives you 24-hour access to our comprehensive AAT resources, includes webinar recordings, workbooks and activities, to help you through your course and beyond. Perfect for when you want revisit something you’ve just learnt, or revise for your assessments.
Collaborate with other learners
Learn with and from other our experts and other students on our online platform. Share what you have learnt in each unit, reinforcing your understanding while helping you prepare for your assessments and future role.
Get your burning questions answered quickly
Our learning support team are here to help If you have a question about the VLE, CIPD membership, workshops or anything else to do with your course. They are contactable whenever you need them, for as long as you’re on the programme.
Improve your study skills
We’ve introduced a brand new study skills webinars to help you enhance your critical analysis skills, write and communicate better and of course study more effectively. Available 24/7, you can watch these webinars anytime anywhere and on any device.
Payment options
Pay in full
To pay for your course in full, simply enquire, call us on 016 0867 4224, 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.
Invoice your employer
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!
Useful links
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.
What to expect
If you’re looking to move into the finance sector or formalise the experience you already have, then this AAT Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping will give you the foundation you need to start building a successful career in the finance industry.
In as little as three months you’ll discover:
How to effectively set-up and use both manual and digital bookkeeping systems.
How to process a range of transactions, receipts and payments.
How to use control accounts.
And much more.
When you learn with Reed Business School, you’ll get access to:
Dedicated, experienced tutors who are subject specialists and will support you throughout your studies .
A variety of delivery options including classroom learning at our conveniently located training centres and residential study programs at our iconic 11th-century manor.
Access to additional study materials including Green Light Tests and webinars.
Our unique teaching formula, which has helped thousands of students succeed on their course and beyond.
Practice assessments for each unit.
Not sure if this AAT qualification is right for you?
Get in touch with a learning advisor now. They’ll run through the options with you and help you make the best decision for your career.
Choose your study method
We offer a range of study methods to suit your lifestyle and budget. All our study options include 24-hour access to our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) where you can study in your own time between classes.
Live Online
A combination of both online learning and live workshops, both from the comfort of your chosen location. All learning and testing materials are supplied via the award-winning Virtual Learning Environment from Mindful Education. This is coupled with regular live online workshops led by one of our fully qualified tutors to reinforce your learning. Each weekly* workshop will last around 3 hours and is recorded for future reference.
(*frequency will depend on your chosen course)
£595.00 (inc VAT)
Online Classroom
Get all the benefits of in-person learning, all from the comfort of your own home. Great if you need a little more flexibility when it comes to where you want to study. If you prefer a shorter, more in-depth, personalised one-to-one workshop, then we have the perfect option to fit your needs:
Essential package: 45-minute live tutor workshops, with full learning materials, and online student progress portal. Price £395
Enhanced package: 90-minute live tutor workshops, with full learning materials, and online student progress portal. Price £595
£395.00 (inc VAT)
Residential
Make the Reed Business School campus your home away from home, while you study for your AAT qualification. During sessions delivered at our iconic Manor, you’ll get to know other students, relax in our first-class accommodation and enjoy delicious homemade meals. Meals and accommodation are included in the price.
From £895.00 (inc VAT)
Classroom
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.
£795.00 (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!
Payment options
To pay for your course in full, simply enquire, call us on 016 0867 4224, 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.
Market-leading pass rates
Explore our impressive pass rates to see why our training programs lead to student success!
*The pass rates shown are the rates for all CBAs completed between 01 January 2024 and 31 December 2024 on the Q2022 standards.
Please note that the information in the above table refers to the pass rates based on computer-based assessments (CBAs) only and not achievement rates for the overall qualification.
Frequently asked questions
Bookkeeping is the first part of the accounting process and involves recording financial transactions, such as sales, purchases, and expenses, to ensure accurate financial records. Accounting, on the other hand, is a broader process that includes interpreting, analysing, and reporting financial data, preparing financial statements, and ensuring compliance with tax regulations. Both offer rewarding career paths but it’s fair to say that bookkeeping is more administrative, while accounting involves financial strategy and decision-making.
This is an entry-level qualification with two units of study
Introduction to Bookkeeping
Principles of Bookkeeping
It’s ideal for beginners looking to kickstart a career in finance.
AAT Level 2 is equivalent to GCSEs (grades 9-4 or A*-C) in the UK. It is a foundation-level qualification in accounting, covering basic finance and bookkeeping principles. It’s perfect for those who have no experience in accountancy or finance.
AAT Level 2 typically takes 3 to 6 months to complete, depending on study pace and learning method.
Obtaining an AAT Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping will give you the fundamental skills that underpin many roles in finance so having this qualification will definitely improve your job prospects! Some employers may prefer experience or professional membership with bodies like AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians). The AAT Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping can be used as a route to professional AAT bookkeeping member (AATQB) status.
With a Level 2 bookkeeping certificate, you can expect to find entry-level bookkeeping and finance roles such as finance assistant, accounts clerk or accounts administrator. Many use this level as a stepping stone to further accounting qualifications like AAT Level 3.
No qualification is legally required to be a bookkeeper in the UK. However, as bookkeeping involves managing financial records for businesses and requires a certain level of expertise, it is beneficial to hold a qualification or be qualified by experience. Obtaining a qualification like AAT Level 2 or membership with a professional body like AAT can improve job prospects and credibility.
You can get a bookkeeping certificate by completing a course with a recognised body like AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians). Reed Business School currently offers five AAT qualifications to choose from including Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping, Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping and three further qualifications in accounting.
Yes, AAT Level 2 qualifies you for entry-level bookkeeping roles, such as trainee bookkeeper, accounts assistant, or finance clerk. For more advanced roles, you will need AAT Level 3 or further experience.
In AAT Level 2 Bookkeeping, there are two exams: Introduction to Bookkeeping and Principles of Bookkeeping Controls.
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.
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Not sure which option is right for you?
Speak to one of our specialist learning advisers who will talk you through your options.
