A Level Accounting (AQA)

What is the subject about?
The basis of Accounting is the process of recording, classifying, summarising and analysing transactions (most often in business). It concerns itself with measuring the performance of organisations and communicating that information to people who want or need to know (stakeholders – people who have some interest or share in the organisation).
Accountants therefore provide information to managers who are responsible for running organisations efficiently. Other major groups of stakeholders are the owners and employees of the organisation who will want information about how well it is doing in terms of making a profit or even just surviving (and therefore providing jobs).

Why study Accounting?
The skills required for accounting – numeracy, problem solving and the ability to communicate clearly with different groups of people are highly prized amongst employers.

Is it exam or course work?
There are four exams in total, two at the end of the first year and two at the end of the second year.

What’s it like to study?
It’s a bit like learning Maths but less Mathematical (yes, I do mean that). Teacher demonstrates, introduces a new concept, you practise, then you do homework, which involves more practise. Then you’re perfect.

Where do I go from here?
It is possible to study accounting at degree level, but there are also many further courses that cover all aspects of business. An accounting qualification will help with any course which has a financial content

Recommended reading
Any newspaper with a financial section – look at the job adverts, especially the salary. A student comments ‘great student/teacher interaction makes Accounting enjoyable’ (Eneka Quamina)

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