I've read most of the previous discussions and learnt a lot in a short space of time (thank you!). Most people seem to want to take up bookkeeping to progress onto accountancy and set up a business - is there any space in the market for someone like me that would like to simply be a bookkeeper for a small company? Or would I just be giving myself the unnecessary challenge of entering an industry where people are fighting to get in the door? It is something I think I would enjoy and be good at, but the studying for years to progress to ACA level does not interest me.
I may be moving abroard in the future as well, so if I do, would my basic skills (thinking of doing the AAT bookkeeping courses dependant on cost) be of any use anywhere other than the UK?
many apologies, I've missed one or two new posters recently and only just picked your post up in a quick scan to see if there were any recent posts that had not been replied to.
Of course there's room for you in the forum and we all look forwards to chatting with you.
The issue that you have is that many small businesses are looking for a one stop solution with their provider be that a bookkeeper or an accountant.
The businesses that are looking for pure bookkeeping work are larger mid range enterprises who are invariably looking for data entry roles rather than analysis. That may appeal for starters but as you progress with your AAT it will like as not have you pulling your hair out. If you reach that stage it's time to move on as companies only ever think of you as fulfilling the role that they know you in.
Certain threads would have you believe that the bookkeeping role is dead. That is not true but it is true that to be a self employed bookkeeper rather than a temp or permie you really need a basic knowledge of accountancy.
AAT would be an excellent move for your aspirations as it is the defacto qualification looked for by practice and accounts departments.
ACA or ACCA would basically take over your entire life (plus encroach on those hours currently wasted sleeping) and it does not sound as though it is what you are looking for... However, when you're MAAT and have the job that you want maybe looking at ACCA at that stage would not be a bed idea if you decide that you want to spread your wings.
Good luck with whatever route that you take and I look forwards to chatting as you work your way towards your goals,
kind regards,
Shaun.
p.s. you got a slightly longer response to an initial post than normal as an apology for a site reply taking two days in the coming.
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Shaun
Responses are not meant as a substitute for professional advice. Answers are intended as outline only the advice of a qualified professional with access to all relevant information should be sought before acting on any response given.
