Combining AAT qualifications with a full-time career in the public sector

Many Premier Training students combine their AAT studies with a career in the public sector.

AAT qualifications can aid career progression for finance employees within local authorities, NHS Trusts, universities and colleges, schools and more.

They can provide professional development opportunities across a wide range of roles and responsibilities, including those working within accounts, auditing, credit control, payroll and financial reporting.

Bethany Martin has combined her role as a Business and Admin Officer at Medway Council with AAT studies – gaining qualifications across levels 1-3.

After a short break, Bethany is embarking on the AAT Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting next month. Here, she kindly tells us about her journey so far…

 

Why did you opt to study AAT qualifications?

I was in a career rut at the time. I was working in London’s West End when COVID-19 hit and I was made redundant. I was able to get a full-time permanent position with the local council and it was in this role that I reflected on where I wanted to go career wise seeing as the arts sector was closed for the foreseeable. I realised that in all of my previous jobs I really enjoyed financial duties and decided to embark on the AAT qualifications as a result.

Why was distance learning right for you?

I chose distance learning as it fits in well with my full-time job. I also have a busy life in general filled with endless dog walks and socialising, so distance learning offered the flexibility I needed to fit studying around my lifestyle.

How have you found AAT qualifications?

I have really enjoyed progressing through the levels. I actually started out studying the AAT Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping in November 2022 to see if I found the course interesting enough to want to progress. It was also a useful way to see if distance learning worked for me and to see how I got on with the exams. I enjoyed it so much I’m now on Level 4! The course is definitely manageable alongside a full-time job. Distance learning offers you complete flexibility to study around your job and your personal time.

Are you enjoying your studies?

I’m enjoying it so much. I’ve completed Levels 1-3 in just over two years and am itching to get started on Level 4 after a well deserved break. I’ve found studying accountancy so interesting as finance is applicable to all aspects of life and it has really benefitted me not just at work but in my everyday life.

Are you considering further qualifications after AAT Level 4?

I would definitely love to continue onto ACCA or possibly a Masters degree in finance and leadership/management. I enjoy learning and am always looking for ways to progress within my career.

Do you have an ultimate career goal in accountancy or finance?

COVID-19 has shown me that as much as you plan for what career you’d like, life really can turn that on its head entirely and move you into a completely different direction. I’m unsure of an ultimate career goal at the moment, but I’m looking forward to what opportunities the AAT qualifications can offer me.

Any tips for other AAT distance learning students?

Distance learning = self-motivation. You really do need to be self-motivated, persevere and be committed. And remember, we’re not machines! It’s okay to go at your own pace and take regular breaks (I’m currently taking a 1.5 month break before embarking on Level 4 as I’ve got study fatigue). At the end of the day, any movement towards the end goal, no matter how small the steps, is closer than not moving at all.