Courses

Accounting

Course Description

Qualified accountants are highly paid, valued individuals. They have an influence on everything you will see and do in life. You will learn how to manage information, produce reports and analyse the performance of a business. You will develop the skills needed to embark on a route to working as a high earning accounting professional whether by progressing through to university or on to a higher apprenticeship.

Entry Requirements

Students studying three A Levels will be expected to have a minimum of two GCSEs at grade 6 and three GCSEs at grade 5/4, including English Language and Mathematics at grade 5/4 or above. Or eight GCSEs at a minimum of grade 5.

Features of the Course

Accounting is a unique and diverse subject. Its academic and practical aspects will allow you to gain a critical understanding of the way in which financial information is used (and misused!). After an initial grounding in bookkeeping, you will explore the different branches within the accountancy profession as a financial accountant, compiling and analysing the accounts of sole traders, partnerships and limited companies. You will also be facing the dilemmas of a management accountant, when using financial data to plan ahead and to help make informed strategic business decisions. Will a firm break-even? Should all decisions be based on maximising profits? How are accounts legally ‘window-dressed’ to present the firm in a desirable way? Should accountants consider the ethical impact of their actions? Which non-financial issues affect the decisions made by accountants?

No previous accounting knowledge is assumed. Examination questions require the use of extended written answers to evaluate financial information; acknowledging that financial information is a tool to assist with decision-making.

Assessment

Two examinations (three hours per unit) are taken at the end of second year. Each unit is assessed by a written exam.

Exam Board: AQA

Enrichment and Work Experience

Students can participate in the annual BASE competition where we compete with other schools and colleges on a real life scenario set by the ICAEW (Institute of Chartered Accountants for England and Wales). Problem solving and presentation skills are essential. In addition, there is also the opportunity to undertake a one-week placement in the second year.

Additional Information

Students studying Accounting without A Level Mathematics will study Core Mathematics to support their studies in this area.

Links With Other Subjects

Any student considering a career at management level or above in any profession would benefit from an understanding of accounting. Accounting links well with Mathematics, Business and Economics.

Future Career Opportunities

Many students progress into a financial management career including: budget analyst, chartered accountant, business accounts, economics and the banking sector. For any student considering a leadership or management position, an understanding of accounting is a major benefit.

Why study at The Sixth Form Bolton?

The Sixth Form Bolton is one of the few colleges to offer A Level Accounting and has an outstanding pass rate. You will benefit from a range of industrial visits to see how the theory works in practice.