My Decision to Study Bookkeeping

During the pandemic, a lot of things changed at my workplace. I started thinking about what else I could do. Bookkeeping had come to mind a lot as it is something I have done a bit of in the past. I wanted to update my skills and learn more about the UK tax system and accounting software.

In November 2021, after having to make an emergency trip to Canada to help my daughter for 8 weeks, I made the commitment to study with Training Link. I did a lot of research and they seemed to have the learning style that would work best for me. Being able to work at my own pace at home with the help of a tutor has been amazing. What really appealed to me is the training style of reading and doing. The activities follow the example which gives the practise needed to learn. Being able to use Sage for part of it was another great and helpful thing.

My Challenges and Achievements

I have not gone through all of this without challenges. My daughter has continued to go through some very nasty times and even though she is an adult has needed a lot of emotional support from me. My son’s wife had an operation which went wrong and has left her severely disabled. He had some very scary times where he thought he was going to lose her. Having 2 young children, he has also needed a lot of support. I lost my mum in 2022 and my dad in 2023. Also in February 2023 my husband had a heart attack. Thankfully he recovered nicely from this.

There had been times when I felt I couldn’t continue with my studies. Luckily my husband is very supportive and kept encouraging me. My tutors, Ben, Bev, and Jo have also been great. The tough times I had when I was younger also taught me to never give up.
I have a saying, “I’m not done”.
The hard work had paid off.

• In May 2022 I achieved a Distinction with honours in Level 2 certificate in Bookkeeping.
• In May 2023 I achieved a Distinction in Level 3 certificate in Bookkeeping and Accounts.
• In October 2023 I achieved 88% in Level 4 certificate in Self-Assessment Taxation.
• At time of writing this I have just completed my exam for Level 4 Payroll Management and I’m very hopeful I have passed this as well.

My Future Plans

My plan, after our Asian cruise, which is in aid of our 2 special birthdays this year, is to complete Training Link’s setting up your own practice course and apply for a practice licence. I hope to set up my own small practice to continue to fund our hobby of travelling.

I would highly recommend Training Link for anyone looking to study bookkeeping or accounting.

My advice to anyone currently studying is to take advantage of the extra resources available and if you get ever stuck your tutor is always ready to help.

Never give up, you will get through it.