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• # 117243
• Wed 31 Oct 2018 02:17 PM

Hi 

I have the full AAT qualification and a license with the AAT, at the moment I have a couple of self-employed clients that I complete self-assessments for. I am considering changing from the AAT to ICB as I feel that the AAT do not offer enough support and resources and find them rather hard work so to speak.  I was wondering if anyone who is a member of the ICB can let me know what they are like, resources available etc ?

As I did my AAT over 5 years ago I know that I may need to retake exams etc in order to join the ICB and I just wanted to do some research before I take the plunge and commit so to speak

Thanks

Charlotte

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• # 117247
• Wed 31 Oct 2018 06:54 PM

Hi Charlotte

my experience with AAT goes back to last century.  With ICB though there are good resources and if you ring ICB you will get answers.  i do find i have to chase for email answers though but that might just be me. 

However if if you need to do any retraining for ICB I would definitely recommend Ideal Schools to do them through.  always responsive, and a couple of good Facebook groups which they are always Active in.  

ICB also has a lot of local meetings run by members so well as an annual summit which is always well attended. 

Good luck

Liz

• Time can never be replaced. Spend it wisely.

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• # 117248
• Wed 31 Oct 2018 07:57 PM

Hi Charlotte,

I like you, came over from AAT to ICB and I haven't looked back. There's alot of support and resources available and some really great events where you can network and gain industry insights - we ICBer's are a friendly bunch!

The ICB do offer membership by exemption based on experience too, not just examination so may be worth checking this out too.

For myself, I advocate Training Link who have been immensly helpful in supporting me in gaining payroll and self assessment passes in the high ninties, you do also have the option to self study without support as you can buy various workbooks online from the ICB shop and Amazon too. I did this for the Level 4 in Advance Bookkeeping and Accounts. 

Maybe have a chat with the ICB directly, i'm sure they will be more than happy to provide information on the best route to membership.

Regards

Jaye

• Jaye Snell MICB PM. Dip, ACIPP

  Exe Bookkeeping and Payroll Services

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• # 117257
• Fri 02 Nov 2018 11:12 AM

Hi Charlotte,

Could I ask specifically what you have found difficult in dealing with AAT please?  What has driven you to consider ICB membership?

Kind regards,

David.

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• # 117268
• Tue 06 Nov 2018 02:16 PM

Hi 

Lizzie59 & Jaye I just want to thankyou for your comments I will be contacting the ICB as suggested this week.  To discuss my options and a way forward. I will defiantly be looking at Training Link & Ideal Schools as I would like to do the Payroll course. J

David - I feel that the AAT is more geared towards employed individuals as opposed to the Self Employed.  There is also great emphasis on getting students through exams but limited help with work experience and working for yourself etc.  Although I can only speak from personal experience but it feels as though they are more than happy to take your membership/subscription fees and then you are on you own.

Best Wishes

Charlotte  

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• # 117270
• Wed 07 Nov 2018 07:03 PM

Hi Charlotte,

No problem at all, glad to help.

I think your comments regarding the AAT are very valid, that was my reasoning for moving across to the ICB.

A great bonus with doing your payroll course with Training Link is the fact that as well as the core course you also achieve Sage 50 Payroll Professional Beginner and Intermediate certificates, this was what swayed me - three courses in one!  

Good luck with whichever path you choose.

Jaye

• Jaye Snell MICB PM. Dip, ACIPP

  Exe Bookkeeping and Payroll Services

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• # 118125
• Sun 13 Oct 2019 09:26 PM

I have an AAT Bookkseping License but that does not allow me to offer SA. I want to take the ICB SA course and get Practice License through ICB . Will that be an.Issue? 

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