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Bookkeeping Courses

If you're looking for a career that allows you to work flexibly, earn a good living, and even start your own business, bookkeeping could be the ideal solution.

The best thing about studying bookkeeping is you don't need any prior qualifications or an expensive university degree; anyone can study to become a bookkeeper - through a structured, online accredited bookkeeper course.

At e-Careers, we offer a range of convenient distance learning solutions for individuals and businesses, allowing our students to achieve more in their professional lives.

With flexible payment plans and a dedicated team of tutors, you'll have everything you need to complete your accredited bookkeeping course.

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  • AAT - Association of Accounting TechniciansCIMA - Chartered Institute of Management Accountants

    Professional Accounting or Taxation Technician Level 4 Apprentices will be trained to take responsibility for creating, and/or verifying and reviewing, accurate and timely financial information within the organisation in which they are employed or on behalf of another organisation.

    [...]
    Apprenticeship
    close

    Professional Accounting or Taxation Technician Level 4 Apprentices will be trained to take responsibility for creating, and/or verifying and reviewing, accurate and timely financial information within the organisation in which they are employed or on behalf of another organisation.

    View Course
  • ICB - The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers

    The ICB Level 2 Bookkeeping course is the perfect qualification if you have your sights set on starting a career as a Bookkeeper or within the accounting and finance industries.

    [...]
    Online
    £650Inc. VAT
    close

    The ICB Level 2 Bookkeeping course is the perfect qualification if you have your sights set on starting a career as a Bookkeeper or within the accounting and finance industries.

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  • ICB - The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers

    Get the skills and qualifications needed to work as an independent Bookkeeper with this ICB Level 2 & 3 Bookkeeping & Accounts which will take you to the Associate membership level.

    [...]
    Online
    £1,375Inc. VAT
    close

    Get the skills and qualifications needed to work as an independent Bookkeeper with this ICB Level 2 & 3 Bookkeeping & Accounts which will take you to the Associate membership level.

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  • ICB - The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers

    Learn how to carry out more advanced bookkeeping functions and principles in the Level 3 Certificate from ICB, including how to prepare final accounts for non-incorporated businesses.

    [...]
    Online
    £850Inc. VAT
    close

    Learn how to carry out more advanced bookkeeping functions and principles in the Level 3 Certificate from ICB, including how to prepare final accounts for non-incorporated businesses.

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  • AAT - Association of Accounting Technicians

    You will develop practical bookkeeping skills in double-entry bookkeeping and in using associated documents and processes. You will also learn how to deal with VAT ad trail balances and develop your understanding of the relationship between various accounting records.

    [...]
    Online
    £345Inc. VAT
    close

    You will develop practical bookkeeping skills in double-entry bookkeeping and in using associated documents and processes. You will also learn how to deal with VAT ad trail balances and develop your understanding of the relationship between various accounting records.

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  • AAT - Association of Accounting Technicians

    The AAT Advanced Certificate in Bookkeeping (Level 3) training course was developed for experienced Bookkeepers. This course would suit those looking to become accredited in Bookkeeping and gain the skills required for senior-level job roles, including how to prepare financial statements for small and medium-sized businesses, understanding VAT legislation requirements and VAT reports. 

    [...]
    Online
    £395Inc. VAT
    close

    The AAT Advanced Certificate in Bookkeeping (Level 3) training course was developed for experienced Bookkeepers. This course would suit those looking to become accredited in Bookkeeping and gain the skills required for senior-level job roles, including how to prepare financial statements for small and medium-sized businesses, understanding VAT legislation requirements and VAT reports. 

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  • AAT - Association of Accounting Technicians

    Have you been considering a career in finance? Do you have no prior knowledge or understanding of accounts? Don't want to take the risk of making a big investment in a course that might not be the best fit for you? Then this AAT training course is just perfect for you.

    [...]
    Online
    £95Inc. VAT
    close

    Have you been considering a career in finance? Do you have no prior knowledge or understanding of accounts? Don't want to take the risk of making a big investment in a course that might not be the best fit for you? Then this AAT training course is just perfect for you.

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  • AAT - Association of Accounting Technicians

    If you’re looking to gain a comprehensive understanding of Bookkeeping and work towards a career as a qualified Bookkeeper, our AAT Levels 2 & 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping package is the perfect way to achieve your career goals.

    [...]
    Online
    £695Inc. VAT
    close

    If you’re looking to gain a comprehensive understanding of Bookkeeping and work towards a career as a qualified Bookkeeper, our AAT Levels 2 & 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping package is the perfect way to achieve your career goals.

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What is bookkeeping?

Bookkeeping is the process of recording and organising financial information for a business. It involves tracking expenses, sales and other transactions to make sure that all money coming in and out of the business is accounted for.

What is bookkeeping?

What does a bookkeeper do?

manages a company's financial records

Bookkeeping plays a critical role in every business, regardless of size or industry. Simply put, a bookkeeper manages a company's financial records, ensuring that they are accurate, up-to-date, and compliant with relevant laws and regulations.

recording all financial transactions

More specifically, a bookkeeper is responsible for recording all financial transactions, including purchases, sales, receipts, and payments. They organise and maintain financial records, prepare and send invoices, track overdue payments, reconcile bank and credit card statements, and generate financial reports.

managing payroll

In addition to these day-to-day duties, bookkeepers may also be involved in managing payroll, preparing tax returns, and communicating financial information to other stakeholders, such as accountants, auditors, and business owners..

company’s banking activity

A skilled bookkeeper is essential to the success of any business, as accurate financial records are crucial for making informed decisions and complying with legal obligations.

With e-Careers' AAT and ICB accredited courses, students can gain the skills, knowledge, and practical experience necessary to excel in this vital role.

Benefits of becoming a bookkeeper

Becoming a bookkeeper can offer numerous benefits, both professionally and personally. Here are some of the key advantages:

High demand

High demand

Bookkeeping is a vital function for businesses of all sizes, and there is a constant need for skilled bookkeepers. As long as there are financial transactions, there will be a demand for bookkeeping services, providing good job security and numerous employment opportunities.

Versatility

Versatility

Bookkeeping skills are transferable across various industries and sectors. Whether you choose to work for a corporation, a small business, a nonprofit organisation, or as a freelance bookkeeper, the skills and knowledge you acquire can be applied to different contexts, making it a versatile profession.

Flexibility

Flexibility

Bookkeeping offers flexibility in terms of work arrangements. You can choose to work full-time or part-time, and there are often opportunities for remote work or freelancing. This flexibility allows for a better work-life balance and the ability to tailor your schedule to fit your personal needs.

cContinuous learning

Continuous learning

Bookkeeping involves staying up to date with financial regulations, tax laws and accountancy software . This constant learning provides an opportunity for professional growth and development. Additionally, by staying current with industry trends, you can expand your skills and increase your value in the job market.

Entrepreneurial opportunities

Entrepreneurial opportunities

Many bookkeepers eventually start their own bookkeeping business or work as independent contractors. This entrepreneurial path allows you to have more control over your work, set your rates, choose your clients, and build a business according to your vision. It can be a rewarding way to apply your bookkeeping skills and have more autonomy in your career.

Entry-level accessibility

Entry-level accessibility

Bookkeeping can be an effective entry point into the field of accounting and finance. While it is a distinct profession, acquiring bookkeeping skills is relatively straightforward compared to many other career options and being qualified as a bookkeeper can serve as a foundation for further career growth. It can provide a stepping stone to more advanced roles such as accounting, financial analyst, or even business owner.

Overall, becoming a bookkeeper offers a stable and fulfilling career path with opportunities for growth, flexibility, and the chance to contribute to the financial success of businesses.

Demand for bookkeepers in the marketplace

Demand for bookkeepers in the marketplace

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) estimates that there are approximately 5.5 million small businesses in the UK which accounts for 99.2% of total businesses in the UK! The majority of these businesses do not have in-house accounting services and rely on independent bookkeeping professionals to manage their financial records. This trend has created a significant demand for bookkeepers, who can offer affordable and high-quality services to small business owners.

Furthermore, new regulatory requirements such as Making Tax Digital (MTD) have been introduced to encourage businesses to file their taxes online. This has increased the demand for bookkeeping professionals who are proficient in digital accounting software, as well as knowledgeable about the latest tax laws and regulations.

According to a report published by the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT), there is currently a significant shortage of bookkeeping professionals in the UK. The report shows that 76% of businesses are experiencing difficulties in hiring and retaining bookkeeping staff due to a skills shortage.

In conclusion, the growing demand for bookkeepers in the UK marketplace is driven by several factors, including a skills shortage, increasing awareness of the importance of financial management and a more expansive economy.

With the right skills and bookkeeping qualifications, individuals can enter this rewarding and dynamic field and contribute to the success of businesses across the UK.

What skills are required to become a bookkeeper

A successful bookkeeping career requires an individual to have a range of personal skills and attributes beyond just having an aptitude for numbers. Accurate bookkeeping depends on your ability to maintain focus, pay attention to detail, and communicate effectively with clients. The ability to stay organised while working with complex data sets is also a must. 

Moreover, bookkeeping is an industry that values trust and professionalism. You need to possess high ethical standards and respect the confidentiality of your clients' financial data. It is crucial that you have a strong commitment to integrity and instill confidence in your clients about the trustworthiness of your work. 

What skills are required to become a bookkeeper

While bookkeeping is a specialised skill, there are several transferable skills from other fields that can prove useful. For example, those who have had experience in administrative roles may already have a good understanding of the importance of record-keeping and carrying out tasks methodically. People who have worked in customer service roles tend to be effective communicators, which is also a crucial skill in bookkeeping.

Finally, individuals with analytical and critical thinking skills possess a natural ability to work with numerical data, a core component of what bookkeeping is all about. 

How to become a bookkeeper

If you feel that you would like to become a bookkeeper then we recommend taking the following steps:

The first step is to research what a bookkeeper does and determine whether you want to specialise in this field. Also try and determine if you are looking to enter bookkeeping as a pathway into the accounting industry, or just want to focus on the bookkeeping profession.

If you are already working in an organisation and are looking for a career change then you can speak to your employer about your aspirations and explore opportunities for you to do bookkeeping tasks within that company. If you are a career starter, or you are unemployed then we suggest you focus on getting yourself trained before starting a bookkeeping career.

Research bookkeeping courses. Completing a bookkeeping course and obtaining professional bookkeeping qualifications will not only provide you with the knowledge and skills you will need to progress but will also give you the accreditation that employers seek.

Decide if you wish to study online bookkeeping courses, through virtual classrooms or in a physical classroom. All methods have their advantages, and you should research which option is best for you.

Choose the right training partner. Whether you are a career starter or seeking a qualification to push your career forward, it is important to choose a provider such as e-Careers that has a good track record to deliver bookkeeping courses that help people make a tangible impact on their career development.

You do not necessarily need to finish your bookkeeping course or be a fully qualified bookkeeper before you start applying for jobs. An employer will see it as a positive that you have invested in yourself and may offer employment opportunities within their organisation whilst you continue studying.

Bookkeeping career paths

Bookkeeping is an essential part of any business, and bookkeepers are in high demand across a range of industries. After completing bookkeeping training, you will have the skills and knowledge required to conduct bookkeeping duties effectively and efficiently. 

But what career paths are available to bookkeepers?

The good news is that the options are vast and varied. Here are just a few examples:

Start your own bookkeeping business

Start your own bookkeeping business

If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, you could start your own bookkeeping business and offer your services to small businesses and individuals. With your expertise and practical experience, you could build a successful career that allows you to work for yourself and set your own schedule.

Work for an accounting firm

Work for an accounting firm

Many accounting firms require the services of a skilled bookkeeper to support their clients. You could work in a team alongside other professionals and gain valuable experience across a range of industries and sectors.

Work in the public sector

Work in the public sector

Bookkeepers are also employed in the public sector, particularly in local government and education. You could work for a local council or school and be responsible for managing their financial records and budgets.

Work for a non-profit organisation

Work for a non-profit organisation

Non-profit organisations rely on good financial management, and bookkeepers are a vital part of the team. You could work for a charity or non-profit and be responsible for managing their accounts, ensuring that donations and grants are properly recorded and allocated.

Once you have mastered bookkeeping skills, you could use your qualifications and experience to develop a career in accounting.

Whatever career path you choose, a bookkeeping qualification from e-Careers will provide you with the skills, knowledge and practical experience needed to succeed.

With our self-paced eLearning courses with expert tutor support, you can learn at your own pace and develop the expertise needed to become a skilled bookkeeper.

And with our interest-free payment plans, our courses are accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.

Invest in your future today and take the first step towards a rewarding career in bookkeeping.

Bookkeeping career paths

Salaries in bookkeeping

If you are considering pursuing a bookkeeping career, you may be wondering about the potential salary range for various roles.

Let's take a closer look at some of the most common bookkeeping positions and their corresponding salaries:

Bookkeeper

Bookkeeper 18,000 - £40,000 per annum

(Source: Glassdoor UK)
Accounts Assistant

Accounts Assistant £17,000 - £30,000 per annum

(Source: Reed UK)
Accounts Payable Clerk

Accounts Payable Clerk £18,000 - £25,000 per annum

(Source: Totaljobs UK)
Payroll Administrator

Payroll Administrator £20,000 - £25,000 per annum

(Source: Indeed UK)

It's worth pointing out that the above data shows average salaries across the industry, and the exact figure you receive may depend on several factors such as experience, location, qualifications, and the specific company. However, with the demand for bookkeeping skills being high, it's safe to say that starting salaries are competitive, and experienced professionals have the potential to earn significantly more.

In conclusion, obtaining bookkeeping qualifications that are recognised and accredited by professional bodies such as AAT and ICB can significantly boost your employability and earning potential in the UK.

What qualifications are required to become a bookkeeper?

To become a bookkeeper, it's often necessary to have a set of qualifications that demonstrate your ability to perform bookkeeping duties with the utmost accuracy.

While there are no specific prerequisites for aspiring bookkeepers, employers often require candidates who have up to date knowledge and certifications.

In this regard, AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) and ICB (Institute of Certified Bookkeepers) offer internationally recognised bookkeeping qualifications at different levels, namely Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping, Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping and Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping.

What qualifications are required to become a bookkeeper?

e-Careers is accredited by both of these leading awarding bodies and deliver online bookkeeping courses that are designed to equip learners with the knowledge, skills, accreditation and practical experience required to carry out bookkeeping duties effectively and confidently.

Level 1

AAT Level 1 Certificate in Bookkeeping

At Level 1, learners will cover the basics of bookkeeping, such as double-entry bookkeeping, profit and loss account, balance sheet, credit control, journals and ledger accounts. The qualification also covers the use of basic accounting software, so learners have a firm grounding in computerised accounting systems.

Level 2

AAT Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping

At Level 2, learners build on the foundation provided by Level 1, and cover more advanced bookkeeping topics. These include adjustments for financial statements, reconciliations and trial balances. In addition, learners will gain an understanding of how to prepare VAT returns and how to use accounting software to produce final accounts.

Level 3

AAT Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping

At Level 3 which is the highest certificate offered through ICB courses and AAT bookkeeping courses, learners will gain an in-depth understanding of the principles of both bookkeeping and accounting. They will also cover more advanced practical applications of bookkeeping. Upon completing a course at this level, learners will be well-equipped to provide professional bookkeeping services and take on supervisory roles.

What qualifications are required to become a bookkeeper?

AAT and ICB qualifications are highly respected in the industry, and are widely recognised by employers, including some of the UK's top accounting firms. By completing such bookkeeping training, learners can set themselves apart from the competition and demonstrate their competence and expertise to potential employers.

e-Careers' accounting and bookkeeping courses are delivered through our award-winning online learning platform with support from expert tutors. Our learners can study and their own pace and in their own time. All our accounting and bookkeeping courses can be purchased through interest-free payment plans, making them accessible to everyone.

Why choose e-Careers

Everyone should have the opportunity to learn and develop a better future for themselves, regardless of age and experience. Our range of online bookkeeping courses are designed to give you the practical skills and professional knowledge to become a fully qualified bookkeeper.

Here's why over 625,000 people from across the world have chosen e-Careers

Flexibility
Flexibility

Our bookkeeping courses are delivered as a combination of self-paced online and tutor support from our expert tutors, so you can study wherever, whenever and at your own pace; through our highly engaging, modern learning platform.

Trust
Trust

We have trained over 625,000 people and received over 13,000 positive Trustpilot reviews from our students.

Award-winning
Award-winning

We have won multiple awards and nominations for our online courses.

Flexibility
Tutor support

Our bookkeeping courses come with teaching support from highly skilled and passionate tutors.

Created by industry experts
Created by industry experts

Our bookkeeping courses are developed by our team of experts, including professionals who teach in college, bringing classroom quality training to your online courses.

Gain the skills hiring managers want
Gain the skills hiring managers want

We work closely with employers to ensure you are workplace-ready with in-demand skills

Flexible payment options
Flexible payment options

We will work with you to find an affordable way to get trained and qualified.

Growth Masterclasses
Growth Masterclasses

You will be given an exclusive invitation to join our Growth Masterclasses where you will develop techniques to fully unlock your potential, a great addition to your knowledge based qualification.

TOTUM PRO Student Discount Card
TOTUM PRO Student Discount Card

TOTUM membership (formerly known as NUS extra), is available to all e-Careers bookkeeping students. A TOTUM PRO Student Discount Card opens doors to a broad range of discounts and deals on everything from dining, fashion, tech to travel, and daily essentials. The TOTUM platform offers over 400 discounts and deals, with more exciting brands being added every month.

FAQs

I want to become a bookkeeper but cannot afford the course fees. What are my options?

No matter your budget, there are a variety of options available to help you succeed in the bookkeeping and accounting profession.

e-Careers offer flexible payment plans that allow you to spread the cost of your bookkeeping course over several months or years, often interest-free.

Some employers may even pay for your bookkeeping course if they see the value in having employees who possess a certain skill set or qualification, particularly if it is related to their business needs.

Can I learn bookkeeping online?

Yes, absolutely! Thanks to the latest technological advancements, learning bookkeeping online has become more accessible and flexible than ever. With e-Careers, you're in good hands - our courses are accredited by the world's largest bookkeeping institution - ICB and the leading accounting institution - AAT, which guarantees that you'll receive industry-leading training.

The courses we offer are designed specifically for online, flexible study. This means you can learn from anywhere, at any time, and at your own pace. You can study at home, on your lunch break, or even on your morning commute - all you need is a stable internet connection!

As our courses are self-paced, you're able to complete them in a time frame that suits you. Some people prefer to dedicate a few hours each day, while others choose to absorb as much information as they can over intensive weekend studying periods - it's up to you.

Over the years, thousands of people have studied a bookkeeping course with e-Careers and have gone on to build successful careers in the industry.

What is the most recognised bookkeeping qualification?

When it comes to bookkeeping qualifications, the most recognised are the ones accredited by Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) and the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB). Both organisations are credible and reputable, with a long-standing history of providing high-quality education and a range of bookkeeping courses.

AAT, is the UK's leading qualification and professional body for vocational accountants, with over 130,000 members worldwide. They have been providing bookkeeping and accounting qualifications for over 35 years and are known for their rigorous curriculum, as well as their strong emphasis on ethics and professionalism.

The ICB is the world's largest professional organisation for bookkeepers, with over 200,000 students across 100 countries. They have been providing bookkeeping qualifications for over 20 years and are known for their practical, hands-on approach to training. The ICB is also recognised by many employers, including the UK government, which uses their qualifications as a benchmark for their own recruitment processes.

Both the AAT and ICB offer globally recognised bookkeeping qualifications that are highly valued by employers around the world. Their qualifications are designed to give students the practical skills and knowledge needed to effectively carry out bookkeeping duties in a professional and accurate manner.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a credible and highly recognised bookkeeping qualification, then AAT and the ICB are excellent choices. With their long-standing history, global status, and recognition from employers, you can be confident that their qualifications will help you to stand out in the job market and excel in your bookkeeping career.

Enquire about our Bookkeeping Courses today

Looking for a trustworthy way to earn your bookkeeping qualifications? Look no further than e-Careers.

Each bookkeeping course is certified and globally recognised, providing a gateway to gain employment and career advancement regardless of your experience level.

Contact us now to explore our comprehensive range of online training and qualifications for bookkeeping. Get ahead in your career with e-Careers!