I’m studying AAT, English is my second language and I work full time. My experience…

Antonio Buendia Castro

Studying AAT via distance learning

Some of you may know me as I am part of the Accountancy Learning team. Aside from working here, I am studying my AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting.

When I was asked if I would like to do my AAT Level 2 qualification, I was worried because as a non-native English speaker, I wasn’t sure if I would be able to do it. When you try to study in a language that is not the one you are used to, it may seem a little bit intimidating. Even though I sometimes need to look up some words, it is not stopping me from learning and understanding the materials. I feel very confident with the comprehensive course materials, as they include presentations and voiceovers, which makes everything much easier to follow. In addition, I normally print out all the transcripts and exercises that are available in every session to download, as I find it less tiring to study that way given I spend all day in front of a PC. Some evenings… it’s also some bed time reading! If I add the help of my tutor, who is always willing to help me and answer all of my questions, it is even easier to gain confidence in every topic.

The good news about studying AAT courses by distance learning is the flexibility that it gives you to study at your own pace. If you are getting a little bit behind with your studies or you need more time to understand several topics, you don’t feel under pressure. From my experience and also as advised by my tutor, I try to study between 5/8 hours per week. My way of doing this is: I normally stay a couple of hours one evening per week after work, complemented by one extra evening at home and some extra hours at weekends; but I must admit I am not always able to do weekend part! 🙂 I am very lucky that my Directors give me some time off during working hours to carry on with my studies.

I will very soon be taking my Control Accounts, Journals and Banking System (CJBS) exam (having already passed PBKT). I am now doing my course revision and lots of practice before taking my real exam. What about you? Are you still worrying about starting your AAT studies because you feel worried about the language or because you work full time?

P.S. The photo of me above, was taken in Barcelona, although I was brought up in Grenada where my family still live.

P.P.S. We’re delighted to report that Antonio has now successfully completed his AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting

Antonio with his AAT Certificate in Accounting
Antonio with his AAT Certificate in Accounting

 

You can read more about the AAT Certificate in Accounting HERE:

We hope that these study tips have helped you! Whilst we are not able to respond to any specific questions you might have about our posts, do please let us know if there are any further topics you would like us to write about. If, however, you are one of our tutor supported students, please get in touch with your personal tutor who will be more than happy to help you.

Accountancy Learning

Accountancy Learning Ltd specialises in the provision for accountancy training. We offer a wide spectrum of courses in accountancy and bookkeeping from beginner's level to the full AAT Accounting Technician qualification centered around our Virtual Learning Environment, Moodle. We also provide impartial advice on progression options to ACA, ACCA, CIMA, and ATT.

About Accountancy Learning

Accountancy Learning Ltd specialises in the provision for accountancy training. We offer a wide spectrum of courses in accountancy and bookkeeping from beginner’s level to the full AAT Accounting Technician qualification centered around our Virtual Learning Environment, Moodle. We also provide impartial advice on progression options to ACA, ACCA, CIMA, and ATT.

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