Star Student Phil recognised for rapid AAT progress during pandemic

Throughout this year we are highlighting Premier Training students who have gone the extra mile, overcome adversity, or made impressive progress through their AAT courses.

Our latest ‘Star Student’ is Phil Beck, who completed the AAT Advanced Diploma in Accounting in just five months earlier this year.

Here, Phil explains how the pandemic inspired a career change and provides his top tips for AAT distance learning students…

Up until fairly recently I ran my own entertainment production company. I decided to undertake the AAT Level 3 Accounting during lockdown once it became clear that live performances would not be permitted in the long-term future.

I didn’t want to waste the extra time so I decided to undertake the AAT Level 3 having previously completed the NVQ Level 2 some years ago.

The main challenges I faced were juggling childcare and home schooling with my studies. Luckily, I had the full support of family which allowed me to make good progress.

Over the last few months, I have taken a full-time job with Haven as an Entertainment Team Manager which has allowed me to combine my love of entertainment and my knowledge of accounting.

The qualification has also given me a huge advantage when seeking to move up the career ladder into an operational management role which I aim to be ready for in the next year.

My main tip to other students would be to use all the resources at your disposal. Personally, I found the seminar videos the most useful as they talked you through the techniques in a very simple, user-friendly way.

The tutors are incredibly helpful – mine (Richard Sharp) was great. He was always available with help and advice.

As for me, I am continuing my learning journey with the Level 4 Accounting qualification halfway completed. I’ve committed every spare moment I’ve had to my studies and am really proud of how it has turned out so far.

• Could you be our next Premier Training Star Student? Email info@premiertraining.co.uk to tell us why.