GCSE Accounting Course Structure and Teaching Approach

Exam Board: Cambridge IGCSE

Course Structure

The GCSE Accounting course introduces students to essential accounting principles and practices. It focuses on developing practical skills and theoretical knowledge, equipping students with the foundation for further studies or entry-level roles in accounting.

1. Topics Covered

• Introduction to Accounting (10 hours)
  • Purpose of Accounting and the Role of an Accountant.
  • Users of Financial Information.
  • Basic Accounting Concepts: Accruals, Consistency, Prudence.
• Double Entry System (15 hours)
  • Ledger Accounts: Assets, Liabilities, Income, and Expenses.
  • Trial Balance Preparation and Errors.
  • Types of Transactions: Cash and Credit.
• The Accounting Cycle (20 hours)
  • Journals and Daybooks: Purchases, Sales, and Returns.
  • Bank Reconciliation Statements.
  • Accruals and Prepayments.
  • Depreciation of Assets: Straight-Line and Reducing Balance Methods.
• Financial Statements (20 hours)
  • Income Statement (Profit and Loss Account).
  • Statement of Financial Position (Balance Sheet).
  • Adjustments in Final Accounts (e.g., Depreciation, Bad Debts).
• Control Accounts and Correction of Errors (10 hours)
  • Sales and Purchases Ledger Control Accounts.
  • Types of Errors: Omission, Commission, Principle.
• Management Accounting Basics (10 hours)
  • Budgeting and Variance Analysis.
  • Decision Making Based on Financial Data.
• Examination Skills and Practice (15 hours)
  • Past Paper Practice.
  • Time Management and Question Prioritization.
  • Mastering Multiple-Choice, Short-Answer, and Long-Answer Questions.

Teaching Approach

• Concept Clarity with Practical Application:
  • Topics are introduced through real-world examples and case studies.
  • Students practice creating and analyzing financial statements for businesses.
• Step-by-Step Approach:
  • Concepts like double entry and financial statements are broken down into manageable steps to build confidence and proficiency.
• Interactive Learning:
  • Hands-on activities such as creating ledger accounts and preparing trial balances.
  • Group discussions to solve accounting problems collaboratively.
• Exam-Focused Preparation:
  • Detailed analysis of Cambridge IGCSE mark schemes and examiners’ reports.
  • Weekly tests to track progress and address weak areas.
• Customized Resources:
  • Comprehensive notes, flowcharts, and summaries for each topic.
  • Access to past papers and topic-specific practice questions.
• Regular Feedback and Support:
  • Personalized feedback on assignments.
  • One-on-one support for challenging topics.

Completion Time

The course is designed to be completed in 80-90 hours, depending on the student's pace and familiarity with the subject.

• Weekly Schedule: 2-3 hours per week (approximately 8-10 months).
• Intensive Option: 4-5 hours per week (approximately 4-5 months).

Additional Support

• Trial Classes:
  • A free or discounted 1-hour trial session to introduce students to the course.
• Flexible Payment Plans:
  • Weekly, monthly, or upfront payment with a discount of 5-10% for full payment.
• Intensive Revision Sessions:
  • Half-term or holiday revision courses to consolidate learning and improve exam readiness.
• Career Guidance:
  • Insights into accounting-related careers and progression to A-Level Accounting or vocational qualifications.