Training on JSA and Book Keeping

FiFi_Le_Strange

Hi all

I have two questions that I hope you can give me your thoughts on...

Unfortunately I'm having to claim JSA since my contract expired at the end of July, although all fingers crossed for my interview tomorrow!

My partner is self employed and we thought it would help us both if I learn to bookkeep then volunteer my services to help him out. That way I learn a new skill and also get to have more time with him :j

Question 1: Are there any training opportunities for someone on JSA? I've tried asking when I sign on but I just get a shrug of the shoulders and no response.

Question 2: We're trying to decide between Quickbooks or Sage Instant for the bookkeeping software - does anyone have any opinion on what works best? My bookkeeping skills are so old that it used to involve pen and paper :rotfl:

Thanks in advance
FiFi

book12

There are training opportunites for someone on JSA. However, this is available for people unemployed for 6 months.

This is what I've been told by someone.

FiFi_Le_Strange

Thanks book12, that's what I'd read on the .gov website but had hoped that there were opportunities :-(

book12

It's possible to find your own training though.

Beware that when doing training don't go over a certain amount of hours (don't know the amount). Also, you need to tell them about this too.

GotToChange

Above ^^ posts are correct - such training as would available "through" JCP would not kick in until after 6 months claiming JSA. Even then, chances of Book-keeping/Accounts training be supported are slim to none. There is nothing (unless you know differently) to stop you enquiring at your local FE College; I know that all three close to me offer shorter "Computerised Book-keeping or Accounts" classes as well as manual. Concessionary fees (or none at all?) to JSA/WTC recipients. Sage seems to be more popular/required as far as I can see.

456789

I would agree that Sage is more popular and widely-used

Oldernotwiser

Have you looked at what courses might be available at your local college? If you're on benefits you might be eligible to have your fees waived.

stockport

If your thinking of doing a course I would act quick as most courses start in Sept. I've just started City & Guilds Bookkeeping and Accounts, unfortunately having to pay full charge. Have a look on Ebay for books, I've just got one by Liberty Hall Educational Publishers for about £9. Re: the software I would agree that Sage is the best choice. Good luck.