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Accounting

A Level / 2 year Course / AQA

The aim of this course is to develop an understanding of the purposes of accounting, and develop the skills of presentation, analysis, interpretation of accounting information from small sole traders and partnerships to large limited companies.

More on this course

This qualification is linear which means that students will sit all their exams at the end of the course.

Topics include:

  • The double entry model
  • Verification of accounting records
  • Accounting concepts used in the preparation of account records
  • Preparation of financial statements of sole traders
  • Limited company accounts
  • Analysis and evaluation of financial information
  • Budgeting and 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

Teaching and learning methods

Various methods are employed to help students grasp complex concepts in financial and management accounting. Since accounting is both theoretical and practical, teaching strategies aim to balance these aspects to help students achieve deep understanding and competence in application. Methods include lectures and direct instruction, worked examples and practice problems, case studies and real-life scenarios and group work and collaborative learning.

Assessment

There are two papers, each consisting of a three hour written exam worth 120 marks and represents 50% of the A Level. Each paper has three compulsory sections:

  • Section A: Ten multiple choice questions and several short answer questions (overall worth 30 marks)
  • Section B: Two structured questions (each worth 20 marks)
  • Section C: Two extended answer questions (each worth 25 marks)

Skills and Careers Insight

Studying A Level Accounting equips you with valuable skills that are highly sought after in many industries. You'll develop strong numerical ability, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills, along with a solid understanding of financial management and business decision-making. These skills open doors to a wide range of career opportunities, including roles in accountancy, finance, banking, and business management. Whether you want to become a Chartered Accountant, Financial Analyst, Auditor, or even start your own business, A Level Accounting provides a strong foundation for success in both higher education and the professional world.

Subject Combination

This subject and its content would be ideally suited alongside the following subjects.

Business

Economics

Mathematics

Geography

Computer Science

Law

Student Testimonials

What do our students think about studying here?

I think the best thing about Durham Sixth Form Centre is the fact that it’s a mature environment and it gives you the independence you need.

Sam Henig

Previous school - Wellfield School

I think Durham Sixth Form Centre is a perfect choice because the lessons are well planned and there is a brilliant balance between independent learning and support from all teachers.

Hannah Warwick

Previous school - Hermitage Academy

When I was in Year 11, the biggest worry for me was the transitional period between Year 11 and Year 12. But the support and the teachers made this so much smoother for me moving from my secondary school to Durham Sixth Form Centre.

Jenni Fairish

Previous school - Whitworth Park Academy

The atmosphere and quality of teaching at Durham Sixth Form Centre is very impressive and you can see a great deal of passion from the educators, which is something I believe is very important.

Logan Aitchinson

Previous school - Park View School

Even if you start Durham Sixth Form Centre with no idea where you’re going, you will get the opportunities to talk about your future and go through it and you’ll know what you’re doing later on.

Alice Robson

Previous school - Belmont School

Durham Sixth Form Centre stood out to me for its amazing choice of subjects. I struggled to find anywhere else that would accommodate all my subjects and my specific combination.

Abbie Clifford

Previous school - Hermitage Academy