Book keeping

What will the course Cover?

An introduction to the principles of bookkeeping. This course will cover the basics of day-books and double-entry, profit and loss and other basic book-keeping procedures. You will work towards a City & Guilds level 1 Book-keeping qualification.

Who is this course for?

The self-employed, people running their own business or working in small to medium sized enterprises. People working in voluntary or charitable organisations, or people with an interest in gaining a book-keeping qualification or developing their knowledge of accounting.

What skills, knowledge or experience do I need to start this course?

Basic maths skills so that you can understand the use of adding, subtracting, division and multiplication, and effectively use a calculator. A beginner’s understanding of the accounting needs of a small business or other organisation, as well as being moderately fluent in written and spoken English (at least at Level 1) This course requires an interview and skill check before enrolment. Check our website at hfals.ac.uk or call 020 8753 3600 for details.

What should I be able to do by the end of the course?

Recognise the accounting equation and how it applies to your business; Use ‘Trading account’ to calculate gross profit; Use ‘Profit & loss’ to calculate net profit ; Determine net assets of a business on a particular date by using ‘Balance sheet’; Maintain a two column Cash book, ‘cash & bank’; Maintain a Petty Cash book; Produce Bank statement reconciliation; Define and explain Accounting terms. Gain a introductory qualification in book-keeping basics.

How is the course organised?

Lectures, tasks, demonstrations, discussions, and lots of hands-on practise. Individual work will be given to help students develop their own skills and strengths. Homework will be set to help assess your progress. Practice papers to prepare you for the final exam.

What extra study or practice is expected outside of the class?

To gain the maximum benefit, you should read recommended books and websites, and practice the topics covered during the class each week – the more you practice, the faster your skills will improve. Computer access if needed is available at your local library. Homework will need to be completed and returned to the tutor so you can assess how prepared you are for the exam. In order to complete the qualification you must attend the majority of classes. If you know you are going to be absent please inform the tutor who may be able to supply you with practice tasks. If you miss too many sessions of the course, or do not show any of your work, you may not be eligible to sit the exam.

How will my progress be assessed?

Specific tasks and feedback which will help you decide what else you need to learn or practise. The tutor will provide homework or tasks to assess your progress, and it is essential that you work on these. You will have the opportunity to review practice papers to prepare for the exam. There will be regular opportunities to review your progress through the class leading to the City & Guilds level 1 examination at end of term.

What can I expect to go on to after this course?

You may want to advance to level 2 of the book-keeping qualification, or other office studies. The Computerised Accounts or Payroll courses would add another dimension to your skills.

Are there any other costs and what do I need to bring?

A pen, notebook, calculator and a file folder to store handouts. You may benefit from investing in a guide book to supplement your learning. Some suggested texts are: Book-keeping and Accounts – Wood & Robinson Mastering Book-keeping - Marshall If you are comfortable using the Internet, there are some helpful online sites: www.accountingcoach.com www.beginner-bookkeeping.com

What support is available?

Details of all available support can be found on our website (https://www.hfals.ac.uk/information-advice), in the Guide and the Student handbook, or from teaching or reception staff.