Premier Training student Matt Fieldwick has secured a position with a leading economics research institute thanks to his ongoing AAT studies.
Having completed the Level 2 and 3 Accounting qualifications via distance learning, Matt has recently enrolled onto the Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting.
Here, he explains how his AAT achievements have helped him to achieve a career change whilst building his knowledge and confidence in the process…
What is your career history – and what are your ambitions within accountancy?
In recent times (nine years) my background has been one of self-employment. I have been a sole trader, offering services in health and fitness to a number of clients. Before this, I worked in finance related roles, in both London and New Zealand. My decision to commence studying AAT was motivated by a number of factors, both economical and personal. Initially, my ambitions were to be able to do my own accounts more efficiently and also to offer bookkeeping services on a self-employed/freelance basis. I had always intended to work in practice but also had a desire to work in third sector. My aims were not concrete, I just knew I wanted to broaden my skillset and try something new. My previous experience in accounting roles was also a factor because I felt I could build on this experience by studies and it would put me in good stead if I say, wished to return to employment at any point.
How are AAT qualifications helping you achieve this?
By giving me the knowledge and academic background to build both my professional capability and confidence. I have recently accepted a position working for the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) where I will be able to apply what I’ve learned via my AAT studies and also develop an understanding of third sector accounting. The opportunity to do this came as a surprise, but one I’ve decided to embrace. I don’t think I’d have been offered this position without my AAT qualifications. I can also apply for a bookkeeping license now if I do wish to pursue bookkeeping on a freelance basis around my new professional role.
Why is distance learning ideal for you? Does this provide enough support?
Having a background of self-employment means that you have to develop self-discipline and drive, I believe these are two key traits to thrive via distance learning. I am a person who will happily wake up and study the material for a few hours each day. Distance learning gives me the freedom to continue with other aspects of my life, enabling me to pick up the studies as and when I can. There are also no distractions via distance learning, there are no individuals distracting you like you can experience in a classroom environment.
I have found all of the resources that are supplied by Premier Training very useful. My results so far would indicate that everything a student needs to do well are contained within the resources produced. The tutors are always on hand for any extra help and advice if necessary and I have found the option to watch pre-recorded lectures over and over again very helpful in terms of absorbing material. I find consuming material over and over again really helps, and distance learning enables you to do this.
What advice would you give somebody who is considering AAT distance learning?
My advice would be that the individual should be self-motivated and have a desire to learn accounting concepts. Then on top of that they should take their time to absorb all of the material as thoroughly as possible. I would advise them not to skip any sections and to complete all coursework as set out because it is through this action that the most important technical aspects are learned. Before an assessment they should complete as many practice assessments as possible, including both online and written. I would not have achieved high marks had I not done this. Making mistakes in practice assessments is a very good way of learning.
When I initially started AAT Level 2, I switched to Premier Training after a two-week period because I felt the resources provided by my initial training provider were completely inadequate. Upon making the switch I immediately realised that I’d made a fantastic decision because of the huge improvement in terms of course material and learning resources. I have gone on to achieve distinctions at both Level 2 and Level 3 and the reason I was able to thrive was because of the quality of the tuition. My final piece of advice would be for a student to select a high-quality training provider as this can make a big difference to their results.
