What is Accounting about?

Accounting enables students to develop the knowledge and skills to manage the financial affairs of individuals, communities, and businesses.

• It gives students the tools to make real life financial decisions in a constantly changing and uncertain world and enhances financial literacy
• Accounting is the process of preparing and communicating financial information to a wide range of users.
• Accounting helps individuals and organizations to be accountable to stakeholders for their actions.

Overall, Accountants are able to share their knowledge and use their skills to contribute to their families, whānau, and communities. For example, becoming the treasurer of a local club or managing the family budget.

The big ideas in Accounting

These are the driving imperatives that underpin the practice of accounting and support young people to contribute to the well-being of New Zealand as actively involved, confident and connected, responsible citizens.

Integrity: being honest, responsible, and accountable and acting ethically with awareness of social and cultural differences.

Accountability: justifying and taking responsibility for actions and decisions; adhering to the law and keeping accurate records of property, documents, or funds.

Confidentiality: being trustworthy and having the ability to keep the financial affairs of others secure and not passing on private information other than to those with a legal right.

Reliability: being trusted and organised and having the ability to deliver on time.

Relevance: being able to connect current information and keep up to date on any changes that may affect financial decision-making.

Citizenship: understanding the importance of contributing to the community and being able to be fiscally responsible.

Sustainability: the need for an entity to operate profitably taking into consideration ecological issues.