Bookkeepers are responsible for recording and maintaining a business's financial transactions, such as sales, purchases, receipts, and payments. They ensure that records are accurate and up to date, which is crucial for preparing accounts, tax returns, and financial statements. Bookkeeping can be done manually or using specialised accounting software. Bookkeepers often work for small businesses, charities, or as part of larger finance teams. The role requires attention to detail, good organisational skills, and a solid understanding of basic accounting principles. Some bookkeepers work independently, offering their services to a range of clients.
Bookkeepers in the UK typically earn between £20,000 and £30,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
There were over 15,000 job postings for bookkeepers in the UK in 2023, showing steady demand for this role.
About 60 percent of bookkeepers in the UK have a professional qualification such as AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians).
Responsible for processing employees' wages and salaries, ensuring accuracy and compliance with tax regulations.
Specialises in managing and recording payments owed by the business to suppliers and vendors.
Focuses on tracking and collecting payments due from customers, maintaining accurate financial records.
Achieve at least 5 GCSEs at grades 4 to 9, including Maths and English.
GCSEs provide the foundational knowledge needed for most bookkeeping roles. Strong numeracy and literacy skills are particularly important, as they will help with understanding financial records and communicating with clients or colleagues. If you have not achieved these grades, consider taking resits or equivalent qualifications.
Enrol in a recognised bookkeeping qualification, such as those offered by AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians), IAB (International Association of Bookkeepers), or similar organisations.
These qualifications can be taken at local colleges, online, or through distance learning. The AAT Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping or the IAB Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping are highly regarded and provide practical skills in recording transactions, processing payments, and understanding basic accounts.
Apply for junior bookkeeping or finance assistant roles to gain hands-on experience.
Entry-level jobs may include tasks such as data entry, filing receipts, and assisting with basic account management. Volunteering to manage accounts for local clubs or small charities can also provide valuable experience. This stage helps you develop confidence using accounting software and understanding real-world bookkeeping in a business context.
Familiarise yourself with popular accounting software packages, such as Sage, Xero, or QuickBooks.
Most employers look for bookkeepers who are comfortable using digital tools to manage accounts. Free online tutorials or short courses can help you learn the basics of these programmes. Try practising with demo versions to build your confidence.
Consider studying for higher-level bookkeeping or accounting qualifications to expand your skills.
As you gain experience, you may choose to complete additional qualifications such as the AAT Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping or progress to full accounting qualifications. This can open up opportunities for higher responsibility roles or even self-employment as a freelance bookkeeper.
Become a member of a professional body such as AAT, IAB, or the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers.
Membership can provide access to networking opportunities, continued professional development, and resources to keep your skills up to date. It also demonstrates your commitment to high standards of practice, which can be attractive to employers and clients.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Bookkeeper. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
You can get into this job through:
You could take a recognised accounts or bookkeeping qualification while looking for work. These are widely available. They include:
You may need:
You could do an accounts and finance assistant intermediate apprenticeship.
This typically takes around 12 months to complete.
You'll usually need:
You could start as an admin assistant with a company, for example on a part-time or temporary contract in an accounts department. You could then take a relevant qualification to become a bookkeeper.
If you want to apply for jobs directly, you may find some employers ask for up to 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including maths and English. An A level in business studies, maths, economics or equivalent qualifications could also be useful.
You can find out more about training in bookkeeping through the:
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