The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) is the UK’s leading institute for accountancy and bookkeeping qualifications. AAT is also recognised globally, with students and members in over 100 countries. Created in 1980, AAT has developed into a reputable professional body, and as a result, their qualifications are now essential for many finance-related roles. If you are considering a career in the accounting and bookkeeping industry, an AAT qualification is a step in the right direction.

Accounting vs Bookkeeping

AAT offers two main qualification routes, accounting and bookkeeping. Working as a bookkeeper involves data entry, cash flow analysis, and keeping all financial information organised and up-to-date. An accountant’s role is to analyse costs, audit financial statements, prepare taxes and provide advice and budget recommendations. Accountants need the financial data controlled by the bookkeeper to carry out their role. Because of this overlap, accountants need to understand the principles of bookkeeping. Depending on the size and requirements of the company, there may be a separate bookkeeper and accountant, or there could be an accountant who carries out aspects of both roles.

Accounting Career Path

There is a clear path for progression when developing a career in accounting. Many accounting professionals start in an entry-level position and work their way up, but you may be able to start at a higher level depending on the qualifications you already possess.

Trainee Accountant

This is an entry-level position. Trainee accountants need to support accountants by completing clerical tasks, including some basic bookkeeping. As trainees progress, they are given more complex tasks to develop their knowledge of the accounting practice further.

Salaries for entry-level roles can range from £19,000 – £25,000 (outside of London). As a trainee, you may not be required to have any prior AAT qualifications, but the AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting will be beneficial.

Accounts Clerk or Accounts Assistant

Account clerks need to be competent in basic accounting duties such as logging financial information, assisting in financial statements, verifying invoices and reconciling cash reports.
Accounts Assistant roles are slightly different, although within the same pay scale. Accounts assistants need to complete various accounting tasks for the accounts department, such as processing payroll, creating financial reports, filing tax returns and issuing invoices.

Salaries can range from £23,000 – £33,000 (outside of London), depending on the specific responsibilities involved. The AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting is highly desirable for these type of roles.

Accountant

Accountants will typically carry out complex tasks for the company such as financial audits, preparing important reports and making financial decisions. Companies rely on the knowledge and expertise of accountants for their financial feasibility, so the role of an accountant is very important.

Accountant salaries range from £35,000 – £50,000, depending on the specific responsibilities involved. The AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting is the minimum requirement, and the AAT Level 4 Professional Diploma in Accounting is desirable.

Accounting Manager

Accounting managers oversee the accounting department, ensuring all tasks are completed in accordance with the company’s financial needs. They will also delegate tasks to individuals within the team, and ensure their team is meeting performance targets.

Salaries for this level role usually range from £40,000 – £60,000 (outside of London). The AAT Level 4 Professional Diploma in Accounting is required.

Bookkeeping Careers

A career in bookkeeping also offers a clear path to advancement. Similar to accounting, many bookkeepers start in an entry-level position and work their way up, but you may be able to start at a higher level depending on the qualifications you already possess.

Trainee Bookkeeper

Trainee bookkeepers support bookkeepers with day-to-day tasks. Trainees are given more complex tasks as they progress in order to develop their knowledge of the bookkeeping practice.

Salaries for entry-level roles can range from £20,000 – £22,000 (outside of London). As a trainee, you may not be required to have any prior AAT qualifications, but the AAT Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping or AAT Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping will be beneficial.

Bookkeeper

Bookkeepers are responsible for inputting financial data and ensuring all financial records are accurate and up-to-date. Bookkeepers can also pay invoices, complete payroll and VAT returns.

Salaries for this role can range from £27,000 – £30,000 (outside of London). You will need at least the AAT Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping, with a view to complete the AAT Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping.

Senior Bookkeeper or Bookkeeper Manager

Managers and senior bookkeepers are responsible for the same tasks as bookkeepers, but they may also supervise other employees. They will oversee the practices and processes in place within their department, and provide key information to other finance-related departments within the business.

Salaries for this role can range from £30,000 – £34,000 (outside of London). For this role, you would be expected to have the AAT Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping.

Every business relies heavily on accounting and finance, so the need for bookkeepers and accountants will always be there. No matter which AAT route you take, you can be sure that your career will be stable and rewarding.

You can study at your own pace and in the comfort of your own home with DLC Training. Everything you learn on your AAT course can be applied to real-world accounting and bookkeeping roles, so you can be confident when moving forward with your career.

Need advice on which AAT course to study? Speak with a course advisor today, you can call 0800 0126 770 or email info@dlctraining.co.uk.