AAT Level 1 Bookkeeping Courses

New to bookkeeping and not sure where to start?

At Level 1, Training Link offers two entry-level AAT Awards, each achievable in as little as 2–4 months with no prior experience or qualifications needed.

The Award in Bookkeeping is the right choice if you want to get straight into bookkeeping tasks — processing transactions, recording receipts and payments, and understanding the basics of double-entry. The Award in Business Skills is better suited if you want to build broader workplace and numeracy skills first, such as understanding how a business operates and working confidently with numbers, before moving into bookkeeping or accounting.

AAT award-winner 2026 and Feefo Platinum Provider. 95.2% Level 1 pass rate

  • AAT Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping

    Gain the bookkeeping and accountancy skills that will underpin your future studies. You will gain a sound basis for a career in bookkeeping, financial or management accounting.

    Original price was: £160.00.Current price is: £110.00.
  • AAT Level 1 Award in Business Skills

    This Level 1 qualification provides a variety of skills and essential knowledge to prepare students for using numerical skills effectively in a business setting.

    Original price was: £160.00.Current price is: £110.00.
  • AAT Level 1 Combined Package (Bookkeeping and Business Skills)

    This Level 1 qualification provides a variety of skills and essential knowledge to prepare students for using numerical skills effectively in a business setting.

    Original price was: £300.00.Current price is: £198.00.

What's the difference between the Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping and the Award in Business Skills?

The Award in Bookkeeping focuses specifically on bookkeeping tasks — processing transactions, receipts and payments, and an introduction to accounting software. The Award in Business Skills is broader, covering how businesses operate and how to use numbers confidently in a workplace setting, without bookkeeping-specific content.

Do I need any qualifications to start either Level 1 course?

No. Neither course has formal entry requirements from AAT, though a reasonable standard of English and maths is recommended for the best learning experience.

How long do the Level 1 courses take?

Both are designed to be completed in around 2 to 4 months, with 35–40 learning hours of study and one exam each. As it's distance learning, you set your own pace.

Can I take both Level 1 Awards?

Yes, some students choose to complete both before progressing further, though most move straight to Level 2 after just one. Get in touch if you'd like advice on the best route for your goals.

What can I do after completing a Level 1 Award?

Both qualifications prepare you to progress to AAT Level 2, in either Bookkeeping or Accounting. Level 1 Bookkeeping graduates typically move into roles such as trainee bookkeeper or accounts administrator, while Business Skills graduates often move into roles like data entry clerk or administrative assistant.

What support will I get while studying?

You'll have access to our qualified tutors, Student Street community, and all the study materials you need, backed by our great pass rates.

What Adam thinks of his AAT Bookkeeping study experience

Adam Dilloway enrolled with Training Link on the AAT Advanced Bookkeeping course. We recently sat down for a chat to find out what he thinks of the course material, tutor support, and the additional materials you get when you study with Training Link.