AAT: The need to know...

If you're familiar with our courses, you'll know that e-Careers is an accredited training provider of AAT Certificates in Accounting - enabling aspiring professionals to develop their skillset through an accessible and affordable eLearning platform.

But, how much do you know about the AAT, and why are AAT qualifications recognised as an industry standard for the accountancy sector worldwide? e-Careers explains all:

What is the AAT?

Boasting over 140,000 members across the globe, the AAT or Association of Accounting Technicians is the UK’s leading provider and membership body for vocational accountants.

The organisation prides itself on creating and delivering accountancy qualifications that meet the needs of both aspiring professionals and business owners - and, as a result, the awarding body has established excellent working relationships with a number of household names within the business sector, including Bupa and TUI Travel.

Why is the AAT the UK’s leading provider of accountancy qualifications?

To become an accountant, UCAS advises school leavers to secure an AAT qualification as a minimum requirement. From here, individuals can choose to enrol on additional training courses, depending on what area they want to specialise in, e.g. tax accountancy, and whether they want to become a Chartered Accountant.

What this tells us is that AAT qualifications set the benchmark in accountancy, where becoming an ‘AAT Accountant’ proves to business owners that you have the right skillset, knowledge and experience to officially manage their finances.

What are AAT qualifications?

The AAT understands the growing demand for accountancy and financial skills across all industry sectors. It ensures that all qualifications are based on practical, real-world accounting knowledge that professionals can put to use from day one – whether they are looking to carve their own career within the accountancy sector or support their job role within an existing organisation.

There are many AAT qualifications to choose from, depending on existing skills and experience. These range from a Level 2 Certificate in Accounting (Foundation) to a Level 4 Diploma in Accounting (Professional).

AAT qualifications come hand-in-hand with different levels of AAT membership, for example professionals who complete the Level 4 Diploma in Accounting, automatically become an AAT affiliate member – and then go on to achieve full membership status as an MAAT Accountant once they have completed all work experience requirements.

In accountancy, like most industry sectors, it is vital to keep up to date with industry developments, particularly in an ever-evolving digital environment.

By undertaking AAT qualifications and securing MAAT status, accountants will have achieved an internationally recognised professional designation – indicating the highest standards of professional conduct and up-to-date knowledge. This is something many business owners look for when outsourcing to accountancy professionals or hiring someone in-house.

What next?

The AAT works with over 500 Training Providers, enabling professionals to learn in an environment that suits them best – whether classroom based or distance learning via online courses.

Here at e-Careers we are delighted to be one of them, and able to offer a number of AAT accredited qualifications, including:

• AAT Access Award in Bookkeeping 
• AAT Access Award in Business Skills
• AAT Foundation Certificate in Accounting Level 2
• AAT Foundation Certificate in Accounting Software Level 2
• AAT Foundation Certificate in Bookkeeping Level 2

If you’re interested in finding out more, or require some additional support in selecting the right course for you, please contact one of our Training Experts today on 0203 198 7700.