IAB Level 2 Certificate In Computerised Payroll

The course is suited to those with a basic knowledge of manual payroll and who wish to acquire the skills and knowledge required by payroll clerks prior to employment, using commercial software (Sage Payroll).

Those who have previously worked in payroll and have not received a qualification may also benefit from the course.

While there are no formal entry requirements for enrolment, candidates must be numerate and also have basic skills in communication and IT. Depending on your existing qualifications, you may be asked to take a Skillbuilder assessment of literacy and numeracy skills, prior to being admitted on to the course.

The overall aim of the qualification is to deliver an understanding of the fundamental principles relating to the basic calculations and preparation of both a weekly and monthly payroll, using computerised routines. Within the qualification, candidates have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of income tax and National Insurance calculations for the PAYE employee. Candidates are also introduced to additional payments and allowances, via the Income Tax system, such as Tax Credits, the payment of statutory payments for sickness, maternity leave, adoption pay and paternity pay.

The course covers the following key aspects of payroll:

1. Operate basic functions of a computer
2. Use Spreadsheets to make basic payroll calculations
3. Set up of key parameters, codes and details in payroll software
4. Enter Gross Pay
5. Enter details relating to additions and deductions
6. Amend settings and details
7. Process details of those Starting or Leaving place of employment
8. Perform Weekly/Monthly Routines
9. Understand Confidentiality, Security and other statutory, responsibilities

When will I receive my results?

Results will be forwarded on as soon as they are received at the college. Please note that certificates, where awarded, can take up to 4 months to be received at the college before forwarding on to learners.

Teaching takes place in modern IT suites with a dedicated computer for each student, Lessons are hands-on, with students carrying out the processing of accounting data under the supervision of their tutor. Frequent summaries of key learning points are made using interactive whiteboards, where the tutor can demonstrate the operation of the system in real time for the class. Students are provided with a tutorial package, a booklet of past examination papers and other bespoke learning materials as required.

Candidates will be assessed through an externally set and marked examination. The examination will assess students' ability to process information using spreadsheets and commercial payroll software, and will additionally require the students to provide written answers demonstrating their knowledge of theory via two or more written questions.

The successful candidate may progress to the IAB Level 3 Cerificate in Manual Payroll and the IAB Level 3 Certificate in Computerised Payroll.