Hi, i have just purchased the Kaplan course book and ordered a previous test paper. I have had years of accounting experience but have been out of the industry for 7 years now and feel I am lacking in confidence, hence why i've decided to go back to studying. Has anyone self taught themselves and if so how did they find it, I didn't want to pay out large sums of money to a distance learning college when i have had past experience.
I had 14 years accounting and bookkeeping experience. I purchased the level 3 bookkeeping course for ICB not realising you had to have the level 1 and 2.
So without a course (and without much need to study) I took level 1 manual, level 2 manual, level 2 and level 3 computerised and level 3 payroll.
With the level 1 I bought past paper at a similar time to the actual exam. Quickly read through the past paper before taking level 1 exam.
With the level 2 I tried a few past papers, went to revision seminar run by ICB then went to the exam.
Level 2 computerised I bought past paper, read through it then did actual exam.
Level 3 computerised I assumed it would be similar to level 2 computerised so did not bother with getting past paper, maybe should have done as was surprised by the exam as some of it was manual questions whereas I was assuming all computerised.
Level 3 payroll bought past paper and read through it then did the exam.
Level 3 manual I have the learning manuals from Ideal School. As bought the course in Sept 2007 think tutor support running out soon so I will probably get round to it sometime without the tutor support. Would say that this one is better with the course material of an open learning college rather than self learn.
Hi - I also have many years experience and no exams! I am going through the learning manuals from Ideal Schools and taking Level 1 and II Manual exams. I have been surprised at what I forgot/dont know! Got a good deal with the course and am v.pleased to go this route. Although I could have done level I without the manuals to be honest, but it did make me go back to basics which is no bad thing I guess. Havent needed the tutor support and the turn around with the assignments is quick. I have ordered 2 test papers for Level II but I have a feeling Ideal Schools include one in with the fee. Neve mind I know I can let someone here have it when I am done. Hope this helps Alexis
-- Edited by Alexis on Tuesday 16th of June 2009 09:38:20 AM
-- Edited by Alexis on Tuesday 16th of June 2009 09:41:14 AM
I am in exactly the same position as you! Bookkeeping for some years, I thought it wouldn't hurt to get qualifications. Went with Ideal Schools and bought Levels 1 and 2 Manual.
To be honest, I am wondering if I am wasting my money and time, and have given up for now as I am so busy. But I will complete them when I have time, and will probably go for the level 2 exam later in the year.
I have only ever worked on the computer (Sage and VT, or spreadsheets when needs must), so have found the concept of day books etc a bit strange. But knowledge is never wasted.
Good luck, and I would love to know how you get on.
Hi Barbara - yes I wonder if I am wasting my money/time as well to be truthful. I learnt the manual way so most of it came flooding back and I remembered just how very time consuming it all is. Post it in this book then that book and again in another 'grrrr' thank goodness for computers eh
I will probably go for the level 2 later this year, time allowing or early next. Dont think I will go for another level . The computerised one seems a bit pricey and I am not all that sure I want to set up on my own at the present time. I am 'enjoying' it I guess as it is making me think a bit more about what I do automatically if you see what I mean. But all that writing is making my wrist ache As you say though knowledge is never wasted so I will crack on.
