Bookkeeping and payroll management are critical for UK businesses to maintain HMRC compliance, ensure accurate financial records, and meet employee payment obligations. This combined training equips learners with expertise in managing day-to-day transactions, processing payroll via Real Time Information (RTI), and adhering to Making Tax Digital (MTD) requirements. Designed for beginners and professionals, the course covers UK-specific practices, including VAT returns, auto-enrolment pensions, and GDPR-compliant payroll handling, using software like Sage, QuickBooks, and Xero.

Participants gain hands-on experience in reconciling accounts, generating payslips, and preparing year-end reports. Real-world scenarios include correcting payroll errors, submitting CIS (Construction Industry Scheme) returns, and resolving HMRC disputes. Ideal for roles in SMEs, accountancy firms, or freelance bookkeeping, this training ensures confidence in balancing financial accuracy with regulatory compliance.

Enhance your accounting expertise through innovative, entrepreneurial and creative modules

Undertake an optional marketing placement to boost your career progression prospects

Why should I choose this Bookkeeping and Payroll Training?

Accredited certification recognised by UK employers (AAT, ICB).
Hands-on practice with Sage, QuickBooks, and Xero.
Expert tutors with 10+ years of UK payroll and bookkeeping experience.
Flexible online learning with 24/7 course access.
Updated content covering 2024 MTD VAT and NICs changes.
Dedicated job support, including CV templates and interview prep.

This course merges UK bookkeeping and payroll expertise, ensuring proficiency in MTD submissions, RTI compliance, and payroll automation. Employers prioritise candidates skilled in HMRC-aligned processes, making this training essential for roles in finance, HR, or accountancy.

Course breakdown

Module 1

Module 2

Module 3

Module 4

Bookkeeping Fundamentals

Double-entry bookkeeping principles.

VAT schemes (Standard, Flat Rate, Cash Accounting).

Creating sales/purchase invoices and credit notes.

Bank reconciliation best practices.

Petty cash management and expense tracking.

GDPR compliance in financial data handling.

Ethical standards for UK bookkeepers.

Payroll Processing & RTI Compliance

Setting up payroll in Sage/Xero for employees and subcontractors.

Calculating PAYE, NICs, and student loan repayments.

Auto-enrolment pension submissions (NEST, People’s Pension).

Statutory payments: SSP, SMP, and parental leave.

Generating payslips, P45s, and P60s.

Submitting RTI reports to HMRC.

Correcting payroll errors and late submissions.

Software Automation & Transactions

Configuring bookkeeping software (Sage, QuickBooks).

Automating bank feeds and transaction matching.

Managing accounts payable/receivable.

Credit control strategies for overdue invoices.

CIS payroll reporting for construction clients.

Preparing MTD-compliant VAT returns.

Customising financial dashboards for stakeholders.

Compliance & Year-End Reporting

Reconciling VAT control accounts for HMRC.

Preparing profit & loss statements and balance sheets.

Fixed asset depreciation (straight-line/reducing balance).

Handling accruals, prepayments, and deferred income.

Assisting with internal/external audits.

Submitting year-end reports to Companies House.

Resolving discrepancies flagged by HMRC.

Key information

Accredited certification enhances employability.

Master Sage, QuickBooks, and Xero for payroll/bookkeeping.

Skills aligned with AAT Levels 2-3 and CIPP standards.

Flexible learning with lifetime course access.

Practical assignments using real UK business data.

Free templates for invoices, VAT returns, and payroll reports.

Networking with UK finance professionals via forums.

Support and Assistance

When you enrol in the online Bookkeeping and Payroll Course, you can communicate with our trainers and student support services. This will allow you to ask questions and receive help as needed. Connecting with the trainers and support services can enhance your learning experience and ensure your success in the program. Our friendly support team want you to succeed in your training and achieve the best possible grade.

The student support team is full-time and available to help all students. They offer support services through email, live chat, WhatsApp group, and telephone. You can reach out to them for assistance. They are available through various communication channels. Online Bookkeeping and Payroll Training is compatible with all primary internet browsers, search engines, and mobile devices. You need a good internet connection.

Our trainees have successfully transitioned into fulfilling accounting careers, thanks to the comprehensive Training for Bookkeeping and Payroll and support provided by Professional Careers Training & Recruitment.

Work placements

Work placements are vital for gaining real-life experience and for building your confidence and skills before you finish your course – and they may even lead to a job when you complete the certification. Our HIRED team can help find the ideal placement for you.

Job Roles After Training:

Bookkeeper: £20,000–£35,000
Payroll Administrator: £22,000–£32,000
Accounts Assistant: £18,000–£28,000
VAT Coordinator: £24,000–£36,000
Finance Officer: £25,000–£40,000

100% of our candidates secure roles within 3 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Prerequisites?

Basic numeracy and IT skills; no prior experience required.

HMRC-compliant?

Yes, aligned with 2024 MTD and RTI rules.

Course duration?

Self-paced; average completion in 8–12 weeks.

Software included?

Free trials for Sage/QuickBooks; no extra cost.

Certification validity?

Lifetime, with optional annual updates.

Job support?

Includes CV templates and mock interviews.

Corporate discounts?

Available for teams of 3+ learners.