Re-training - The Home College

SCOYA

Am thinking of re-training, and have come across The Home College, and wondered if anyone has had any experience of them, I was considering doing the Book-keeping/SAGE accoutancy but it's at a cost of £1,500. Any advice would be most welcome, I have always previously worked as a secretary/administrator, 10 years of which I worked as a PA, so this would be a total departure from what I've previously done.

BCD

I wouldn't spend that much money on a home study course. I've done dozens of these types of courses and they have got me nowehere. Most are a waste of time.

If you want to get into accounts how about doing the CIMA or ACCA route?

SCOYA

Thanks for your input, will keep options open as there's a lot to consider.

Mudd14

I wouldnt go straight into CIMA or ACCA.

AAT would be a good option if you dont know much about accounts work to start with as AAT covers the basics. Also employers are keen to have AAT qualifications.

CIMA and ACCA would be worth while after AAT if you decide to take the management accounts style route.

AAT can be done through local collegues but is expensive. Training in the class room is much more beneficial in my opinion for accounts

just_mini_mad

I have been doing something similar to what Mudd14 suggested.

I've 17 years banking experience followed by a further 10 years working as a secretary/PA in the legal sector but decided now the children were up I would like to return to the accounts field. I'm in my final year of the IATI course (Irish equivalent to AAT) and love it. I know this is where I am meant to be. I would so love to be able to continue on and study ACCA BUT I am finding that I cannot get a job in this field even with a distinction pass in my first year as employers only want people with current hands on experience which I am finding so frustrating. I know I can do the job but just can't get the chance to show them.

I would also recommend training in the class room especially in the areas of financial accounts, management account and taxation. I attend a local college one day a week. The course does demand a lot of homestudy too. I am currently doing about 6 hrs per week at home on top of the course.

Bismarck

just to add. don't go the Home College route....there are cheaper and more effective ways of getting that kind of job...it's the experience that will count in the end. If you've got the money, then it's probably no bad thing but it's lot to pay when there are unfortunately, no guarantees....

SCOYA

Thank you all very much for your advice and input, it's most appreciated and has given me much food for thought.