Level 3 AAT Diploma in Accounting for Adults

Course Code: P122810

Key Information

  • Course type:

    Vocational

  • Campus:

    Highbury Campus

  • Next Start Date:

    09/09/2025 (Evening)

  • Duration:

    1 year

  • Attendance:

    Part-time

  • Fees:

    £2,573.00 or Free

Level 3 AAT Advanced Diploma in Accounting (Evening)

This programme is designed for individuals who want to advance their knowledge and skills in accounting, while benefiting from a flexible and supportive blended learning approach. It is ideal for those progressing from Level 2 bookkeeping or accounting qualifications, professionals looking to upskill and gain a nationally recognised qualification and those seeking a career in finance who value a balance of online learning and in-person support. 

This flexible course is delivered in partnership with Mindful Education, and combines online learning with face-to-face lessons in the classroom.

The AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting covers a range of complex accounting tasks, skills and knowledge, combining online study with face-to-face workshops. Key topics include: 

  • build on your bookkeeping knowledge with more complex concepts and techniques 

  • learn how to prepare final accounts for sole traders and partnerships

  • understanding management accounting and costing techniques to support financial decision-making

  • gain expertise in indirect tax (VAT) through calculating and submitting VAT returns

  • explore ethical considerations and their role in the accounting profession

  • develop practical skills in using spreadsheets to support accounting tasks. 

 

This qualification covers a range of complex accounting tasks. You will learn and master financial processes, including accounting principles and concepts, preparing financial concepts, management accounting, tax processes and business awareness.

On successful completion of this course, you will be awarded an AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting. This internationally recognised AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) qualification enables those working in accounting or those looking to pursue accountancy as a career to gain knowledge, practical experience and the all-important certification often sought by employers.

You must have a sound knowledge of bookkeeping principles to undertake the AAT Level 3 programme. Achievement of an AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting, or equivalent, is recommended. In addition you must: 

  • have basic numeracy and literacy skills (usually demonstrated by GCSEs in maths and English at grades 3/D or above, or equivalent). Initial and diagnostic assessment may be indicated to ensure the course is right for you 

  • have a strong interest in accounting, be willing to commit to the course requirements and assessments. 

If you have relevant work experience or qualifications, you may also be eligible. 

Due to the professional nature of the qualification, there are strict standards and requirements for membership to the AAT, in particular surrounding criminal convictions.  

This course offers a flexible blended learning model. This means there is a mix of both in class and online lessons that learners must engage with.  

  • online learning through self-paced modules with access to videos, quizzes, and resources available 24/7

  • in-College sessions are weekly, on Tuesdays, 3 hours per week for practical workshops, group activities, and tutor support. 

This mindful delivery model ensures you can study at your own pace while maintaining access to personalised support. 

During your studies, online resources are available on demand, and can be viewed from your phone, tablet or computer. This enables you to choose how, when and where you want to study Mindful Education’s award-winning video lessons. Online sessions last for approximately 45 minutes and combine animations and motion graphics to bring concepts to life. Supporting resources such as practice questions, downloadable lesson materials and interactive case studies help to enhance the learning experience further. You should expect to spend a further 4-5 hours studying independently online each week. 

In College, at our Highbury Campus, you will benefit from scheduled fortnightly classes with our highly trained teaching staff. Your tutor will review what you have learnt during your online lessons and will be on hand to provide guidance on progress and assessment. Regular discussion with classmates will help to reinforce key points while also providing the additional support and motivation that comes from being part of a group.  The programme uses a supportive and learner-centred approach to assessments. These include:

  • short online quizzes to check understanding
  • practical assignments completed at your own pace
  • computer based exams for each unit that are externally set and assessed.  

Throughout the course, tutors will provide feedback and support to help you succeed. 

School Leavers under the age of 19 do not have to pay fees on any full time courses, though may have to pay for their second year if turning 19 during their studies. If you’re aged 19 or over you might qualify for an Advanced Learner Loan. It’s easy to apply for and you won’t have to pay anything back until you’re earning over £25,000. If you are studying a part-time course and you receive one of the following benefits, or you depend financially on someone who does, you may be entitled to have your tuition fees waived: Job Seekers Allowance, Income Support. You will, however, have to pay any awarding body/assessment fees (unless you are on a first full level 2 course). * If you are in receipt of Working Tax Credit or receive other allowances, you may be eligible to claim concessionary rates. If you are entitled to a fee concession you will be asked to provide proof of your entitlement. It is essential that you inform us if your entitlement changes at any time during your course.

On successful completion, you will receive the AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting, a nationally recognised qualification that demonstrates your advanced accounting knowledge and skills to employers. 

This qualification opens doors to further study and career opportunities, including progression to the AAT Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting, for advanced technical accounting knowledge. You can also progress into roles such as assistant accountant, payroll supervisor, or finance officer. It also provides preparation for professional qualifications like ACCA, CIMA, or ACA. You will also eligible for AAT bookkeeper (AATQB) status, giving you the option to work as a freelance bookkeeper.  

Dedicated tutors and career advisors will support you in planning your next steps, ensuring you are well-prepared for your future in accounting. 

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