Telford College is where it's AAT
Telford College is where it's AAT
David Martin admits that going back into education in his thirties was daunting – but he says his time at Telford College has been enjoyable and hugely rewarding.
Bridgnorth-raised David has lived in Telford for the past 14 years, and is currently the warehouse and distribution manager at manufacturing firm Epwin.
He said: “I took the decision in 2016 to return to education – as something to do more than anything else. It’s easy to sit on the sofa at night complaining that the TV is rubbish!
“I’d always worked in distribution and had an interest in business, I didn’t want to do something directly related to what I did on a day-to-day basis but something that I knew would enhance my knowledge and assist me in my current and future roles.
“So I decided, after attending an open evening at Telford College, that the AAT accounting course was the perfect fit.”
David enjoyed the college experience so much that he has continued his links with the team after the end of his level four course.
He explained: “I loved every second, the environment, the students and most of all my tutors were excellent. I missed my Tuesday and Thursday evenings so much that I’ve returned as a mentor on the Young Enterprise programme the college runs for 16-18 year olds.
“The challenge and opportunity to progress through the levels and achieve a level four qualification was something very special and rewarding for me.
“I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. Whilst I knew it was something I wanted to do, going back into education in my 30s was daunting but ultimately rewarding.”
David said the qualification had helped him to demonstrate the level of learning, commitment and resolve that employers are looking for.
“Whilst I don’t work in a finance environment, I am able to show a competency towards how a business is run and performs – invaluable as I progress into more senior roles.”
To anyone else thinking of enrolling on a Telford College course, David’s advice is: “Do it! It’s never too late and it’s an opportunity to learn new things and to meet people who are equally as driven.
“If I hadn’t enrolled, then I wouldn’t have started with Young Enterprises and continued my journey with Telford College.”
AAT qualifications are recognised by employers as practical and technical ways to prepare students for the world of work, specifically in accountancy and finance roles.
The Professional Diploma in Accounting can lead to employment in a wide range of roles, including tax supervision, VAT, payroll, bookkeeping, and commercial analysis.
Teresa Hughes, learner manager for business and digital at Telford College, said: “David brought the world of accounting to life as, when tutors gave their examples of real life scenarios, he was able to expand this and inform students on his own experience in the workplace.
“Accounting is a very important tool and all supervisors and managers should be able to analyse and evaluate a set of accounts and suggest improvements that can be made to enhance the business function within their company.”
