PDA Book-keeping SCQF level 7

The Professional Development Award (PDA) in Book-keeping at SCQF level 7 provides excellent continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities for those currently employed in a book-keeping or financial administration role.

For those looking to enter employment, the qualification offers the opportunity to develop technical and administrative knowledge relevant to book-keeping and financial accounting practice.

The PDA in Book-keeping at SCQF level 7 is suited to candidates who wish to study on a part-time basis whilst in employment in the sector. It is also appropriate for adult returners to education who do not wish to commit to a full-time HNC programme of study but who would like to gain skills in book-keeping.

The qualification is flexible and can be delivered in many modes, to suit different candidates and different centres, including part-time, open and distance learning.

The PDA in Book-keeping at SCQF level 7 develops the knowledge and skills required for a business services or financial support role within an organisation.

It is an ideal qualification for those who wish to acquire or develop skills and knowledge in book-keeping, financial accounting software and payroll procedures.

Candidates who successfully complete the PDA in Book-keeping at SCQF level 7 may undertake further related PDAs or HN Units to build up their qualifications towards a full HNC in Accounting.

The PDA will also prepare candidates for employment within the accounting and business services sector. The types of positions which may be taken up by candidates include:

  • accounting assistants
  • financial administrators
  • payroll clerks

Access

Access will be at the discretion of the centre. In general, entry should be open to any candidate who can demonstrate, by formal qualifications or experience, a reasonable expectation of successfully completing the qualification.

It would be beneficial for candidates to be competent in Communication, Numeracy and IT skills to SCQF level 5.

Centres with devolved authority are eligible to seek approval through their own internal approval process.

Centres without devolved authority will have to come forward for approval and should contact the Business Development Team for guidance.

Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA's general requirements as outlined in the guide to approval.

Ongoing internal course assessment will apply. Individual Unit specifications give detailed information on the Evidence Requirements and approaches to assessment.

External verification will be carried out by SQA to ensure that internal assessment is within the national guidelines for these qualifications.

Any other information

It is recommended that Recording Financial Information/Recording Financial Transactions be delivered prior to, or in tandem with, Using Financial Accounting Software.