ACCOUNTING: AN INTRODUCTION

Intro to the course:

An exciting introduction to the world of accounts, a taster that explores the basics of double entry bookkeeping, an insight into Sage Accounts and how accounting software is utilised in the workplace with time spent understanding basic payroll calculations and how to use Sage Payroll.  This course will contain no assessments, we will use case studies to explore these principles and show you the day-to-day life of a book-keeper.  You will get hands on experience using Sage Accounts learning how to enter invoices, record bank transactions and run reports that help a company manage its finances.  We will explore basic payroll calculations, looking at personal allowances, national insurance and how to enter and run basic weekly payroll through Sage Payroll.

Who is the course for?

This course is ideal for anyone who has an interest in bookkeeping, Sage Accounts or Sage Payroll.  If you are considering a career in Accountancy or further study, this course provides an easy and laidback introduction to the world of accountancy.  It will suit school leavers or those looking to change career or progress into the industry.

What will I study?

We will explore the basics of double entry bookkeeping, this will include understanding key accounting terminology such as debit and credit and assets and liabilities.  We will look at the process of recording entries into ledger accounts and look at basic financial statements such as a trial balance, profit and loss and balance sheet.  You will gain hands on experience of Sage Accounts, exploring the software's capabilities and learning key tasks such as entering sales and purchase invoices, cash and bank payments and reviewing and producing key reports that will aid in business decision making.  Payroll calculations will be discussed, reviewing the basics of your Personal Allowance, National Insurance, statutory payments and then putting this knowledge into practice and using Sage Payroll to process a basic weekly payroll for a company.

Next Step Course Options

This course would allow progression on to: Association of Accounting Technician (AAT)  Level 1 courses; further NC Level 6/7 courses  and  possible progression to HNC Accounting.

How will I be assessed?

There will be no assessments, we will use case studies to explore the principles being taught and give you real-life scenarios to practice.

Why should I choose this course?

The finance and business services was identified in Scotland's Economic Strategy as one of the growth sectors in Scotland in which Scotland can increase productivity and growth.

The course is an excellent introduction and stepping stone for anyone looking to start  a career in accounting, finance or business, whether they have previous experience of accounting or not.

Where can this course lead?

With further study, this could lead to roles in:

• book-keeping
• accounting technician

What are the entry requirements?

Good level of English

What are the interview arrangements?

No formal interview, students will be invited to an informal information and enrolment session.