Mature Student

mideb

I am a bookeeper qualified through experience (all in south africa - but hey accounting principles are actually the same all over)but am struggling to get a job. Probably due to my age (54 years) although still a good 10 years left in me, if not more , if the pensionable age is extended to 70. Also the fact that my experience is South African seems to be a distinct disadvantage. Is anyone prepared to comment whether by studying now at this late stage for AAT intermediate will help me in my quest to get that job - I feel I need some return on my efforts/money if I was to embark on this course.

payrollpro

Hi there,

I fully understand your position, though I am a little younger at a sprightly 51 (almost 52)!

With over 30 years in accounts and payroll behind me I too struggle to get any work at all and, I have to admit, this has to be primarily due to my age, and before anyone says anything about age discrimination laws I can assure you these have made the situation worse.

Despite having accounting, management and payroll qualifications to my name I chose to study again and recently completed the ATT programme and gained full membership. It was costly but I think well worth the money and effort, but it is not my intention to get a job because I don't think that is worth the effort.

I have formed a partnership and will continue my self employment but away from my usual payroll activities and concentrating on taxation whilst my partners will be doing the accounts work and I will service the payroll clients.

So, I would say that yes, there is no better time to study than right now and at least it is one area where age is no barrier, except where the lecturers are younger than your own children! I agree with you that accounting the world over is very similar but nothing beats a qualification in the UK to do accounts and payroll in the UK because employers and clients will be much more comfortable with that arrangement.

Payrollpro