‘Be ready to hit the ground running when normality returns’

Accountancy distance learning students have an ideal opportunity to forge ahead with their studies during the current period of uncertainty.

While many students on classroom-based courses are unable to progress, home learners can continue – and perhaps even allocate more time to their studies.

Speaking in the first of Premier Training’s lunchtime Facebook Live ‘chats’, tutor Peter Clarke urged students to make the most of any additional time they have while confined to their homes.

He remarked: “These are certainly challenging times and it looks like it’s going to be like this for a while. At some point things will get back to normal and in the meantime we have to make the best of it. This is our new normal for the time being.

“If you have been furloughed or you just have more time at home, why not use this opportunity and make the best of the situation?

“You have an ideal opportunity to complete your coursework and really start understanding the intricacies of the unit or course you’re studying – whether it’s Level 2, 3 or 4. So when things return to normal you’re ready to hit the ground running.

Improve your prospects

“Remember why you enrolled in the first place – you wanted to improve your prospects, you wanted to improve your understanding. If you’ve got extra time on your hands then make the most of it.

“When the assessment centres re-open or other arrangements are put in place, you will be ready to take advantage of that situation straightaway.

“It’s going to be a competitive world out there, so the better position you can put yourself in through your study, the better for your family and your future.”

Outlining the support on offer from Premier Training during these uncertain times, Peter added: “From our perspective, it’s business as usual. We have plans in place with staff working from home and we’re operating as normal.

“We’re there to support you in whatever way you need. Everybody’s journey and situation is different, but if you have anxiety or worries, please give us a call.

“We’re very approachable and the team that we have is absolutely fantastic. We’re all very supportive, we all work closely together and our most important priority are our students.

“However we can help you through your journey we will be there to support you.”