I am hoping somebody can help me to try and decide which direction my studies should take as I have passed ICB Level 1 Manual and Level 2 Computerised Bookkeeping on the old Syllabus. (Have not taken or studied for Level 2 Manual) I would really like to eventually become a self employed bookkeeper and am wondering if I should continue with the ICB (new syllabus) or IAB. I have been told by one rovider that ICB is not a recognised qualification, which is a worry. Any help would be greatly appreciated as I seem to be receiving comflicting advice and am now totally confused.
AAT would be the obvious one. You may be able to start at level 3 too. There is a test on the AAT website which suggests a starting level once completed.
Now Jayne here is a very interesting scenario - The IAB will let you join as an Associate with your existing ICB exam passes. Once an Associate of the IAB you can apply for a practice licence with the IAB and trade as a self employed bookkeeper - fully covered by the IAB !!
Well Trevor this is very interesting. Thank you very much for this information. I thought that I needed to enrol in another course before I could do this so you have saved me a pretty penny. I just seemed to be quite confused as to what was happening with the ICB old and new syllabus and where this left me so thank you for taking the time to help.
The switch from the old to new ICB syllabus is very straight forward and as you are considering the self-employment route I strongly believe they are the best organisation to be attached to. More than anyone they have raised the profile of bookkeeping as a profession and have all the support services available for you set up, as well as a network of branches where you can learn from those in the same position as yourself. You should give the ICB or any of the training providers a call to see what your options are.
Getting the go-ahead from IAB to set out on your own at your stage of study, is that really a good idea? You will be competing against many who are qualified to a higher level and having that more advanced knowledge can really improve your confidence when approaching clients.
Regardless of what you do, I wish you the best of luck
Thank you for your post. Yes I think I shall continue to study with the ICB rather than change mid stream. I am just starting to have a look to see which is the best ICB course to take as I beliveve the old syllabus level 2 is now the new level 3. So I will have a look at the subjects covered in each course and go for the most suitable. thank you very much for your help.
The problem you have is getting you mapped into the new ICB syllabus as you have not completed your level 2 Manual course. I would suggest you start off on course BA4.
You will be covering some of the manual Level 2 on the old syllabus as well as computerised which you would have already done, so this would at least give you the opportunity to refresh your knowledge.
I have left you a voicemail on your telephone and please don't hesitate to contact me should you require any further information
