Training To Be a Bookkeeper: 5 Top Tips From PC Training | PC Training

Training To Be a Bookkeeper: 5 Top Tips From PC Training

Are you considering a career that combines precision, organisation, and the satisfaction of helping businesses stay financially healthy? Then bookkeeping might be the perfect fit for you. Bookkeepers are the unsung heroes of every organisation, keeping financial operations transparent, compliant, and efficient.

As the UK economy continues to grow, so does the need for skilled bookkeepers. Every business, from a small retail shop to a multinational corporation, needs someone who can accurately record transactions, manage VAT, and support financial decision-making.

Introduction

Training to be a bookkeeper is now faster and more accessible than ever. With professional guidance and practical learning, you can build valuable skills and launch a rewarding career in just a few weeks.

Our VAT & Bookkeeping Training Course offers a structured pathway for those who want to enter the world of accounting. Designed by qualified accountants, the course combines practical, hands-on experience with professional mentorship, so you can learn, practise, and succeed.

In this article, we’ll explore why bookkeeping is such a valuable career choice and share five expert tips for training to be a bookkeeper, based on PC Training’s proven approach.

Why Choose a Career in Bookkeeping?

The role of a bookkeeper has become more crucial than ever. As government regulations around VAT and tax reporting become more complex, companies are increasingly relying on skilled professionals to manage their financial data correctly.

According to industry reports, the demand for bookkeeping and accounting professionals in the UK continues to grow steadily, especially among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which make up over 99% of all UK businesses. Many SMEs prefer to hire bookkeepers rather than full-time accountants, as it’s a cost-effective way to maintain accurate records and compliance.

Strong Salary Potential

Bookkeeping offers financial stability and clear progression opportunities.

  • Junior Bookkeepers typically earn between £25,000–£28,000 per year.
  • Mid-Level Bookkeepers can earn £30,000–£35,000.
  • Senior Bookkeepers or VAT Managers often make up to £40,000 annually.

With experience, bookkeepers can go on to become accounting managers, financial officers, or even independent consultants serving multiple clients.

A Profession That Builds Trust

Bookkeeping is a respected career built on reliability and integrity. Every transaction you record supports strategic business decisions. You’re not just crunching numbers, you’re ensuring the financial wellbeing of an organisation.

Understanding the Role of a Bookkeeper

Before you begin training, it’s important to have a clear picture of what bookkeepers do and how their role differs from accountants.

Key Responsibilities

Bookkeepers handle the daily financial administration of a business, including:

  • Recording transactions and maintaining ledgers
  • Managing invoices, payments, and expenses
  • Reconciling bank statements and cash balances
  • Preparing VAT returns and financial summaries
  • Supporting accountants during audits and year-end reporting

They ensure that every financial entry is accurate and up to date, providing the data that accountants and business leaders depend on.

Bookkeeping vs. Accounting

While the two professions work closely together, their responsibilities differ. Bookkeepers maintain and organise the raw financial data, whereas accountants use that data to analyse trends, create financial forecasts, and plan business strategies. Without skilled bookkeepers, accountants couldn’t perform their roles effectively.

Essential Skills Every Bookkeeper Needs

To thrive in bookkeeping, you’ll need:

  • Attention to detail: Accuracy is everything.
  • Numerical and analytical skills: A strong comfort with numbers is key.
  • Organisation and time management: You’ll juggle multiple clients and deadlines.
  • Software proficiency: Knowledge of Xero, QuickBooks, and Sage is a must.
  • Ethical responsibility: You’ll handle confidential financial data daily.

5 Top Tips for Training to Be a Bookkeeper

1. Start With a Comprehensive Bookkeeping Course

If you’re serious about becoming a professional bookkeeper, the first step is to enrol in a high-quality training programme.

Our VAT & Bookkeeping Training Course is designed to build both technical and practical skills. It’s a 3–4 week (100-hour) intensive programme led by qualified accountants who guide you through every concept, from basic bookkeeping to advanced VAT compliance.

You’ll learn not only how to record transactions but also why each process matters, giving you a deeper understanding of financial systems and compliance requirements.

Course Highlights

  • Hands-on learning through practical exercises
  • Flexible study options (online or blended learning)
  • CPD-approved certification
  • One-to-one mentorship and support

By the end of your training, you’ll be confident managing financial records, preparing VAT returns, and using accounting software effectively.

2. Get Hands-On Experience With Real Business Projects

Theoretical knowledge is useful, but practical experience is what truly prepares you for the job.

That’s why PC Training integrates real-world business scenarios into the course. You’ll work with simulated financial data from industries such as:

  • IT & E-commerce: learn to manage multi-currency payments and digital invoices.
  • Construction & Manufacturing: handle complex supplier chains and project costs.
  • Retail & Fashion: record daily sales and inventory adjustments.
  • Hospitality & Services: track income, tips, and VAT from customer transactions.

This experience gives you the confidence to work independently once employed. By applying concepts in a realistic setting, you’ll understand how to manage accounts for any business type, and demonstrate valuable practical skills to future employers.

3. Master Industry-Leading Accounting Software

Modern bookkeeping relies heavily on digital tools. Gone are the days of paper ledgers; today, proficiency in accounting software is non-negotiable.

With PC Training, you’ll learn how to use:

  • Sage – ideal for managing VAT, payroll, and reporting.
  • Xero – widely used by SMEs for its cloud-based accessibility.
  • QuickBooks – popular among freelancers and small business owners.
  • Advanced Excel – essential for data analysis and reporting.

You’ll practise entering transactions, generating reports, and reconciling data across these systems. By the end, you’ll be comfortable navigating multiple platforms, a huge advantage in the job market.

Why This Matters

Employers actively seek candidates who can “hit the ground running.” Knowing these tools not only saves businesses time but also increases your earning potential. Many employers prioritise candidates with software certification and demonstrable experience.

4. Understand VAT and Compliance Inside Out

VAT compliance is one of the most valuable and in-demand skills in bookkeeping. Mistakes in VAT filing can cost businesses thousands of pounds, making trained professionals indispensable.

During the VAT component of your training, you’ll learn to:

  • Understand VAT rules, rates, and exemptions
  • Calculate VAT on sales and purchases accurately
  • Complete and submit VAT returns to HMRC
  • Reconcile VAT ledgers and resolve discrepancies
  • Understand VAT schemes such as Standard, Cash Accounting, and Flat Rate

You’ll also explore the importance of record-keeping and the legal obligations surrounding tax compliance. This knowledge gives you a significant edge when applying for roles, as many employers look for candidates with strong VAT expertise.

5. Take Advantage of Career Support and Certification

One of the greatest advantages of studying with PC Training is our career-focused support system. We understand that gaining skills is only the first step, securing employment is the ultimate goal.

After completing your course, you’ll receive a CPD-approved certificate, proving your competency to employers. But we don’t stop there. Our Recruitment Advisors help you with:

  • Writing a professional CV tailored to bookkeeping roles
  • Preparing for interviews with mock sessions
  • Connecting you with employers and live job vacancies

Once certified, you’ll be qualified for a range of roles such as:

  • Bookkeeper
  • Sales Ledger Clerk
  • Purchase Ledger Clerk
  • VAT Manager
  • Billing Clerk
  • Accounts Payable/Receivable Specialist

Our graduates often secure employment within weeks of completing the programme, thanks to the combination of practical training and recruitment support.

What You’ll Learn During Your Bookkeeping Training

Bookkeeping Essentials

You’ll master the fundamentals, including:

  • Creating customer and supplier records
  • Posting invoices, credit notes, and payments
  • Managing ledgers, nominal codes, and accounts
  • Preparing aged debtors and creditors reports
  • Performing reconciliations and managing petty cash

VAT Training Modules

VAT training is integrated into the course to ensure you’re confident handling tax compliance. You’ll learn about:

  • VAT box numbers and calculations
  • Submitting VAT returns to HMRC
  • VAT reconciliation and record accuracy
  • Handling different VAT schemes and deadlines

Software Training

Hands-on software sessions are the heart of the course. You’ll practise on Sage, Xero, QuickBooks, and Excel, learning how to automate processes, generate reports, and manage client data efficiently.

This comprehensive training ensures you graduate with both theoretical knowledge and practical capability, ready to step into the workplace with confidence.

Career Pathways After Completing Your Bookkeeping Training

Bookkeeping offers flexibility, progression, and stability, making it ideal for both newcomers and professionals looking to enhance their careers.

Entry-Level to Senior Roles

You can start as a Junior Bookkeeper or Accounts Assistant, gaining experience and moving into more senior positions such as VAT Manager, Finance Officer, or Senior Bookkeeper. Some even transition into self-employed roles or consultancy work.

Average Salaries

  • Junior Bookkeeper: £25,000
  • Mid-Level: £30,000–£35,000
  • Senior Bookkeeper: £40,000+

Industries Hiring Skilled Bookkeepers

Bookkeepers are needed across all sectors: retail, technology, healthcare, construction, hospitality, and more. This flexibility allows you to work in industries that align with your interests.

Who Should Enrol in This Course?

This training is perfect for:

  • Job Seekers: Struggling to secure stable employment? Gain practical skills employers need.
  • Career Changers: Transitioning from another field? Bookkeeping offers a clear path into finance.
  • Students & Graduates: Build practical experience alongside academic qualifications.
  • Professionals: Already working in finance? Strengthen your skills for promotions.
  • Aspiring Accountants: Planning to study AAT, ACA, ACCA, or CIMA? Bookkeeping provides the foundation.

With over 25,000 accounting and finance vacancies currently available in the UK, trained bookkeepers remain in high demand.

Your Bookkeeping & VAT Career Journey With PC Training

Step 1 – Career Consultation & Registration

Start with a one-to-one consultation. Our experts will assess your background and recommend the right training plan. You’ll then secure your spot with a simple registration process.

Step 2 – Begin Your Training

Once enrolled, you’ll receive full access to our digital learning portal and software setup. You’ll also join a private student support group for direct contact with your trainer.

Step 3 – Get Certified

After completing the course, you’ll receive your CPD-approved certification, proving your expertise in bookkeeping and VAT. This recognition gives you a strong competitive edge in the job market.

Step 4 – Recruitment Support

You’ll receive tailored career advice and job placement support. From refining your CV to connecting with employers, our advisors will help you confidently step into your new role.

Why Train With PC Training?

  • Led by Qualified Accountants: Learn from experts with real-world experience.
  • Hands-On Learning: Apply theory to real case studies and projects.
  • Flexible Training Options: Study full-time or part-time, online or in person.
  • Career Support: Access recruitment guidance until you’re hired.

Recognised Certification: Gain a CPD-accredited qualification respected by employers nationwide.

At PC Training, we don’t just teach you to bookkeep, we prepare you for long-term success.

Book a Free Demo Session

Want to experience our teaching style before you enrol? Join a Free Demo Session to explore our learning platform, meet trainers, and ask questions.

How to Book:

This no-obligation session helps you understand the training process and see how we can support your goals.

Final Thoughts

Training to be a bookkeeper is one of the smartest career decisions you can make today. With a growing demand for financial professionals and opportunities across multiple industries, this role offers stability, flexibility, and professional respect.

We empower you to gain hands-on experience, recognised certification, and tailored career support, all within a few short weeks. Whether you’re starting fresh or advancing your career, our VAT & Bookkeeping Training Course is your gateway to success.