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Free AAT Level 3 Accounting Course in St Albans

CostFREE
Duration33 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start9 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceEvening
Awarding bodyAAT awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free AAT Level 3 Accounting Course in St Albans. Evening classes run at Oaklands College St Albans Campus, part-time over 33 weeks. This blended course combines face-to-face classroom sessions with on-demand video lessons you can watch on your phone, tablet, or computer. It fits around existing work or commitments. You'll need a Level 2 AAT Accounting qualification, or equivalent, to join. The course covers advanced bookkeeping, final accounts, tax, and management accounting. It's a recognised level 3 aat accounting qualification that opens doors to a range of accounting roles.

Who this course is for

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

Online, you will study award-winning video lessons, which are available on demand, and can be viewed from your phone, tablet or computer � meaning you can choose how, when and where you want to study. Lessons last for around 45 minutes and are accompanied by animations and motion graphics to bring concepts to life. Practice questions, downloadable lesson materials and interactive case studies help to enhance the learning experience further and learners should expect to spend around 4-5 hours studying independently online each week.

On campus, you benefit from regular classes with a college tutor � without having to commit to attending multiple evenings each week. 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.

This Level 3 course is part of the Free Courses for Jobs initiative and is fully funded for eligible learners. Alternatively, you can apply for an advanced learner loan to cover the cost of studying this course. Please ask a member of college staff for more information.

The Advanced qualification introduces more detailed financial tasks, including maintaining cost accounting records and preparation of reports and returns. You will also master a range of accounting disciplines from ethical practices for accountants to advanced bookkeeping.

Study the Level 3 Diploma to learn higher accounting techniques and disciplines, and qualify for AAT bookkeeping membership (AATQB).

Please note:

Course start date is 10/09/2025 for daytime groups running from (Wednesday) 17:00 to 21:00

Entry requirements

It is required that you have minimum of Maths Level 2 and English Level 2. You also need to prove that you have passed AAT Accounting qualification at level 2 or equivalent. You can test your knowledge at https://www.aat.org.uk/qualifications-and-courses/skillcheck

What you will learn

  • You'll prepare final accounts for sole traders and partnerships.
  • You'll apply VAT and tax principles to business transactions.
  • You'll produce and analyse management accounting information.
  • You'll use advanced bookkeeping techniques including accruals and prepayments.
  • You'll understand ethical principles in accounting practice.
  • You'll interpret financial statements to support business decisions.

How you will learn

You'll study through a blend of classroom sessions at Oaklands College St Albans Campus and online video lessons available on demand. Online lessons run for around 45 minutes each and include animations and practice questions. Assessment is through a combination of computer-based exams and synoptic assessments set by AAT. You'll sit these at an approved assessment venue.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Oaklands College St Albans Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Accounts assistant. Process invoices, payments, and reconciliations.
  • Bookkeeper. Maintain financial records for businesses.
  • Payroll administrator. Manage employee pay and deductions.
  • Credit controller. Chase outstanding payments and manage debt.
  • Finance assistant. Support a finance team with day-to-day tasks.
  • Purchase ledger clerk. Handle supplier invoices and payments.
  • Tax assistant. Help prepare VAT returns and tax filings.

What you could study next

  • AAT Level 4 Professional Diploma in Accounting. The natural next step, covering budgeting, financial statements, and optional specialist units.
  • ACCA or CIMA. With AAT Level 4, you may gain exemptions from some early papers on these chartered accountancy routes.
  • AAT membership. Completing Level 4 makes you eligible to apply for full AAT membership, a recognised mark for accounting professionals.
Apply on oaklands.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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