Accountancy Student Stories:
AAT Student Stories: Catherine Young | AAT Level 4 Diploma

Catherine wanted to build a career in accountancy so she chose to study AAT with us. Read her experience below.

I started studying with ICS Learn when I got my first job in accounting at age 25. I’d never really known what I wanted to do for work. I left school straight after my GCSEs and went into a cleaning job.

After that, I basically took whatever jobs I could find. Always minimum wage, never a real direction. Eventually, I realised I needed a proper career, something stable.

Accountancy just seemed like a sensible choice.

I remember thinking, “Accountants always have work,” and I’ve always been decent at maths! I took an adult bookkeeping course at my local college in the evenings while working. It only took four months, but it gave me a proper glimpse into finance. I passed the exam and landed my first job as an accounts assistant almost immediately.

My new employer encouraged me to keep studying, and that’s when I found ICS Learn. I signed up for AAT Level 2, and everything really started from there.

I finished Level 2 in about a year and a half, moved on to Level 3, and now I’m working through Level 4, still with ICS Learn. They’ve been with me from the start, and honestly, it’s been a great experience.

The platform is easy to use, the learning materials are clear, and the flexibility is the biggest plus. Studying around full-time work isn’t always easy, but being able to log in anytime, on my schedule, made it manageable.

The courses have had a massive impact on my life and career. I have recently been promoted to Assistant Management Accountant, and for the first time, I feel genuinely proud of where I’m at.

Looking back, it’s amazing to see how far I’ve come.

If anyone’s thinking about starting a career with ICS Learn, I’d say 100% go for it. Stay consistent and invest in yourself. It completely changed my life.

Gain the skills you need with an online AAT qualification that opens doors!