Studying AAT part time, working full-time

[Workandstudy]

I am currently working as a civil engineer and it's just not for me anymore. Been in this job for 10 years and want to move into accountancy.

Thinking of studying for the AAT Level 2 part time whilst staying at my current job so I can still bring in a decent wage in the meantime. And then either look for a job or continue on with level 3 etc.

I have looked at jobs but most are super entry level without a qualification or something to demonstrate my interest.

Any one else done this?how long did it take? I think ill do distance learning in the evening. The nearest college that offers evening classes is over an hour away so I think ill just do distance learning.

I have a maths and engineering background so hoping I should be fine with the figures side of things.

@yesthatisdrizzle yes I'm thinking more industry really. I'd even want to stay within my current industry in engineering but move to the finance side.

I get what everyone is saying about going straight for a training contract but I don't live near a big city so those jobs are few and far between. And will most likely go to new grads.

So I think for me AAT is the wiser choice as it means I can keep earning a lot whilst dipping my toes into accounting basics to see how I like it. With it being shorter to complete, I won't be too disheartened if I decide it isn't for me.

I've spent all my career in industry, and am Chief finance officer now. Your engineering experience would be invaluable in a combination.

To update, I have forged ahead with signing up for AAT Level 2 via distance learning with Kaplan. Hoping my materials arrive soon so I can get started!

I'm going to try to get through this in 6 or 7 months and hopefully have Level 2 under my belt by Christmas.

From there, I'm going to make a decision as to whether or not I will continue with Levels 3 and 4, or just jump into CIMA/ACCA!

I just wish I could get some work experience/ voluntary work on the side during the evenings/weekends to get some practical experience in.

Brilliant, well done for going for it.

Do you belong to any clubs? They always (IME) struggle to fill the treasurer role, or the treasurer might be very welcoming to a helping hand.

@Chewbecca Thanks! I don't belong to any clubs unfortunately. I might see if I can get some admin volunteer experience within a charity and then hopefully they may let me volunteer within finance further down the line.

Good luck with your studies @Workandstudy. There’s such a lot you can do with finance. Hope you find something you enjoy.

Thanks @TheMagicDeckchair
Super excited to get started. They've just updated to the new syllabus as well so perfect time to get started.

Just wondered how the course is going. I'm thinking about starting an AAT level 2 via distance learning so I'm very interested to hear how you're finding it.

@Workandstudy forgot to tag you. How are you doing with the course? Interested to hear!

I did level 2 while pregnant, working four days a week and a two year old. It was pretty straight forward but i feel this alone opened doors for me. I found a job as a finance assistant in a school, then this year while studying level 3, I’ve moved to Business Manager within a new school. I’m struggling to finish level 3 now because of pressures from my job but I can do it in my own time. Good luck

I teach AAT and my college offers both in person and distance learning. Most of my students work full time, it does take some discipline, particularly in the run up to an exam.

PM me if you want to talk about the course in more detail as the syllabus is changing this September.