AAT Level 1
27 May 2026 2026-05-27 18:54AAT Level 1
AAT Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping
If you are thinking about starting a career in bookkeeping but are unsure where to begin, an online AAT course can provide a strong starting point.
The AAT Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping is an introductory qualification aimed at complete beginners. It covers the basic principles of bookkeeping and is suitable for individuals who have little or no previous experience in accounting.
This course may be particularly appropriate if you are:
- New to bookkeeping or accounting
- Considering a move into the finance and accounting sector
- Returning to study after time away from education or work
- Looking to develop essential financial knowledge for employment or personal use
Across many industries worldwide, there is an increasing need for trained and qualified bookkeeping and finance professionals. Completing the AAT Level 1 Award can therefore provide a useful first step towards building a career in finance and developing long-term progression opportunities.

Duration: 1- 3 months
Start: On demand
Fees: £189
(inclusive of exams*)
* additional membership fee applicable
* exams to be held at our Hanley centre
* fees subject to change
Course Options
There are no formal entry requirements for this course. However, to support your learning, a good understanding of English and Maths is recommended, ideally at GCSE Grade 4 level or equivalent.
If English is not your first language, please contact us to discuss whether any additional support may be needed or available.
Please note that individuals who have been declared bankrupt or who have a criminal record may not be accepted for AAT membership, which could affect eligibility to sit examinations. We recommend contacting AAT directly for further advice and guidance.
Bookkeeping Fundamentals
Get started with the essential skills every great bookkeeper needs.
This introductory unit gives you a clear understanding of what bookkeepers do and why accurate financial records are vital to business success. You’ll explore how businesses track income, manage expenses, and monitor profit and loss to stay financially healthy.
You’ll also discover how modern bookkeeping software is used in the workplace, including its key benefits and potential risks. Alongside this, you’ll develop an understanding of the importance of ethical practice when handling financial information.
This unit makes up 100% of your overall qualification grade.
By completing this unit, you will be able to:
- Understand the role and importance of a bookkeeper in business
- Recognise and work with different types of financial transactions
- Record and manage customer and supplier activity
- Process payments and receipts accurately
- Understand how bookkeeping software supports business operations, including its benefits and risks
Choose the learning style that best fits your goals, lifestyle, and preferred way of studying. Whether you want complete independence, flexible support, or a classroom environment, we have an option to suit you.
Self Study
Learn at your own pace with complete flexibility and full control over your studies.
- Study whenever and wherever it suits you
- Access all course materials online
- Ideal for independent and self-motivated learners
- Progress through the course at a speed that works for you
Self Study Plus (On Demand Learning)
A flexible study option that combines independent learning with the reassurance of support when you need it.
- Start your course at any time
- Learn independently using structured, easy-to-follow materials
- Access tutor support whenever you need extra guidance
- Perfect for learners who want flexibility with added confidence and support
Classroom Delivery (face to face or on-line)
A structured, interactive learning experience delivered face-to-face or online by experienced tutors.
- Learn in a supportive classroom environment
- Receive direct guidance from qualified tutors
- Study alongside other learners for added motivation
- Ideal for those who prefer routine, structure, and live teaching
Extensive resources area available to students based on their booking type
Your package includes:
✔ AAT registration
✔ Study text & exam kit
✔ Access to our own Online learning portal (as applicable)
✔ In-house mock exams
✔ Personal tutor available via email and telephone
✔ Exam fees included
✔ All admin fees to sit exams at our approved Hanley Training Centre
✔ No hidden costs. No surprises.
Assessment is based on AAT competency standards. To pass, learners must achieve a minimum score of 70% in all computer-based assessments.
We are a registered AAT assessment centre and deliver exams at our dedicated centre for both internal and external candidates. Internal students can book via their tutor, while external candidates can book through the online booking form – Exam Centre
All costs are included in the pricing structure at ATA.
Course fees include membership fees, tuition, student support resources, and examination fees at our Hanley branch. To secure your place, a 25% course deposit is required. Interest-free payment plans are also available. Please contact us for further details.
Additional membership fees applicable: £47
What next?
Enrol now to secure your place. Once you have registered your interest, a member of our team will be in touch to confirm the next available intake date. We run monthly intakes, so you won’t have to wait long to begin your studies.
After enrolment, we will provide you with the enrolment form and all the necessary information to get you started. If you have any questions before booking, please contact us for more details.
