AAT

Course Summary

This unit requires candidates to provide evidence of their ability to demonstrate the ethical duties and responsibilities necessary, plus the knowledge required to underpin ethical practice in this sector. There are three elements contained within the unit:

• Apply general principles and procedures for ethical compliance expected within the accounting sector
• Develop, maintain and apply ethics in employer/employee situations
• Develop, maintain and apply ethics in public practice

To be effective in each of these you will need to know and understand the ethical guidelines of your professional body.

The first element requires the ability to explain the fundamental principles and objectives of the ethical guidelines. In addition you will analyse work based scenarios and identify ethical issues. You will be required to make critical professional decisions in a variety of different circumstances and to discuss, agree and resolve potential ethical conflicts.

The second element involves developing an understanding of the type of culture within an organization that promotes high ethical values. You will also resolve conflicting loyalties between your duty to your employer and your duty to society at large.

The final element requires you to specifically look at your role as an accountant in practice. You will need to prepare appropriate letters of engagement, identify independence issues, be knowledgeable on the procedures for holding client monies, and be able to identify situations in which your objectivity may be questioned.

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