Accounting

The course involves the preparation of financial statements for statutory purposes, and management accounts in support of financial planning and management decisions. There will be both standard classroom and computer room lessons. The two papers sat at the end of this two-year linear course, broadly break down the course into these two areas. Both papers however require learners to interpret and analyse financial information, in order to form reasoned arguments, reach reasonable conclusions and make recommendations.

The course breaks down more specifically into the following topic areas:

• An introduction to the role of the accountant in business
• Types of business organisation
• The double entry model
• Verification of accounting records
• Accounting concepts used in the preparation of accounting records
• Preparation of financial statements of sole traders
• Limited company accounts
• Analysis and evaluation of financial information
• Budgeting
• Marginal costing
• Standard costing and variance analysis
• Absorption and activity based costing
• Capital investment appraisal
• Accounting for organisations with incomplete records
• Partnership accounts
• Accounting for limited companies
• Interpretation, analysis and communication of accounting information
• The impact of ethical considerations

Examination (100%)
Examining Board – AQA

There are 2 examination papers, sat at the end of two years, each contributing 50% towards the qualification, totalling 120 marks and lasting 3 hours. Each paper has 3 sections: Section A comprising 10 multiple choice questions and short answer totalling 30 marks; Section B has two structured questions each totalling 20 marks; Section C comprising two extended answer questions each worth 25 marks.

Learners must achieve a minimum of a grade 5 in GCSE Mathematics. Be aware this is a numerate A level so an aptitude for mathematics is important. In addition, the College’s standard A level entry requirements apply.

None. A level Accounting combines very well with Business, Law, Economics and Mathematics or Statistics.

It is an outstanding A level option for those learners in Birmingham and Solihull considering further study of Accountancy or Financial Management at University and the undertaking of further professional accountancy qualifications, whilst working in industry or accountancy and business advisory practices. The world’s largest Accountancy and Business Advisory firms take students both at the end of their A level studies and following University and provide a plethora of opportunities including Audit and Accountancy services, Forensic Accounting, Corporate Finance, Corporate Recovery and Business Consulting services. Study of accounting therefore opens up a wide variety of options within Business, Banking, Insurance, Corporate Law, and Business Advisory fields. Chief Executive Officers of the FTSE 250 businesses are usually fully qualified Accountants, as well as their Finance Directors, and study of A-level Accounting could well set you on this exciting path.

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