Help me have a productive summer- AAT?

[AdvicePlease09]

In my second year of study as an undergradate, single parent to one DC. I have 4 months off over the summer with zero plans. I've got an interview for a part time job coming up (only retail based) but I doubt I will get it due to flexibility issues with childcare.

Anyway, I was wondering whether self-studying for level 2/3 AAT would be worth a shot? I've been looking at potentially applying for a graduate trainee position after uni which will allow me to complete an ACCA, or if not looking for some kind of office/finance work. Would this be a useful qualification, if not for accounting, for other jobs?

More than anything I want to increase my employability, I fear ending up in a dead-end NMW job, so anything more than this I will be happy with whilst working my way up. Also, I love to keep busy so I would rather do something than nothing.

Does anyone have any advice or perhaps can suggest other courses that may be useful (it would have to be self-study as I can't afford to take a course)? Or if not, any more general ideas that will give me something productive to do over the summer (other than jobs as I'm currently on the hunt for something PT).

Any idea's or advice with respect to the AAT would be very much appreciated!!

It's a while ago now but i did 1st year aat while working at a drs then got a job that funded my level 3, 4 and cima. Now an accountant few jobs later *at same company.
I would say it's a good qual to have as you could be admin sonewhere with extra responsibility for the books etc

Would you apply for an apprenticeship?

I know payroll people, finance assistants who also did aat.

You could also volunteer (Would be good on a cv) , even if its something like a mental health phone line (something you can do from home)

Try do something enjoy.

Hi, I’m level 4 AAT qualified and found it very useful when looking for a job working in an Accounts department. I am currently working within credit control / payroll for a company. My future goal is to be working as an accountant so I am planning to take my studies further and hopefully starting the CIMA qualification probably within the next couple of years.

AAT is a good route to go if you are wishing to get a job in an accounts / finance role and I would definitely recommend it.

Thanks, thats good news that its been useful then.

@lancslass17 I'd be happy to an apprenticeship, but I'm not sure if I'd be able to get one as by then (if I choose to self-study AAT) I would already have a degree and AAT. I would have thought I'd need to go for a training contact for an ACCA or alike.

It's worth checking out at your local college see what they say.