Suzannah from M&C caught up with Lisa from Abacus Comprehensive Accounting, who explains why she chose Ideal Schools ICB Career Path course package to train as a bookkeeper.
What made you interested in accounting/bookkeeping?
I was never much good at math at school, so when I decided to go to college and I was looking at course options I wanted to do something that I knew would challenge me. I chose an HND in Accounting and everything else followed from there. During my time at college I was also lucky enough to get a part time job with a chartered accountancy practice, which gave me an insight into the working environment.
How did motherhood impact your career path?
I realised when I became a mother that whatever else happened in my life, being a mum had to come first. I was fortunate enough that we were in a position to allow me to be a stay at home mum, and there was no question of me not returning to the job I had been doing before my daughter was born. But I had also started to work through the ICB Career Path before finding out I was pregnant, so I was hopeful that further down the line this would give me options.
Why did you decide to choose online training?
I chose online training because at the time, I wasn’t in a position to give up work and return to full time education. I liked the fact I could fit my studying in around daily life.
What made you choose Ideal Schools?
Ideal Schools had excellent reviews online, and comprehensive course options that, in my opinion, surpassed the options being offered elsewhere. I also liked the fact that they offered package discounts and a payment plan. Very early on I became aware that Ideal Schools is passionate about what they do, and they care about their students and their progression.
What is your work/business situation now?
I currently am self-employed working from home with a small client base. In addition to this, I do a few hours employed work on an irregular basis.
How do you balance your work hours with family life and childcare?
I’m still learning how to find the balance, even with a small client base. It’s hard when you live and work in the same environment to draw a line and make sure that all aspects of life are getting equal attention. I try wherever possible to only work during school hours or in the evenings, so that I can spend quality time with my family.
What advice would you give to other mums looking to pursue a career in bookkeeping?
My advice would be to try it. Sign up to a course and challenge yourself. It won’t be easy, and you never stop learning. But there is help and support out there, and the sense of achievement that you get from learning something new is worth it.
Lisa MacLeod – Abacus Comprehensive Accounting
Website: abacuscb.com
Facebook: facebook.com/AbacusCB
To learn more about how you can train online with Ideal Schools, please visit their website: idealschools.co.uk
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