Making the decision to retrain as a bookkeeper is exciting, but it also comes with questions. Am I choosing the right qualification? Will I cope with studying again? How long will it take? And most importantly, what will my career look like afterwards?

These were exactly the kinds of questions raised in a recent webinar run with ICB. Attendees included complete beginners, career changers, parents looking for flexibility, and even people who already had AAT or ACCA training but wanted to explore a different route.

Prefer to watch? You can catch the full webinar on YouTube here, though we’ll also cover the main highlights below to save you time.

Here are some of the key themes that came up, along with insight from Ideal Schools' tutors and students.

Choosing Between ICB and AAT

One of the biggest questions was about qualifications: ICB or AAT?

ICB (Institute of Certified Bookkeepers) is designed for those who want to move quickly into practice. You don’t need to complete work experience before applying for a practice licence, which makes it ideal for people keen to set up on their own. ICB covers bookkeeping, payroll, taxation, and even cost and management accounting, giving you the flexibility to grow your services as you qualify.

AAT, meanwhile, is widely recognised within the employment market. Many job descriptions specifically mention AAT qualifications, making it a strong option for those aiming to work in finance teams. It can also act as a stepping stone towards higher-level accountancy qualifications like ACCA, where exemptions are often available.

If you are unsure, the best way forward is to talk through your goals. Our team helps students weigh up whether they are aiming for self-employment, progression in employment, or a mixture of both.

Take a look at our ICB Courses and AAT Courses to explore the routes in more detail.

Balancing Study With Real Life

A concern many people raised in the webinar was: “How will I fit study around work, family, or other commitments?”

The answer is flexibility. Students typically study around 7–10 hours per week, broken into short sessions in the evenings or weekends. Some complete Level 2 in a matter of months; others spread their study over a longer period. Ideal Schools provides tutor support for anything between one and four years, depending on the study package, so there’s no pressure to rush.

As one tutor explained, it’s about finding what works for you: little and often, setting realistic goals, and knowing support is always available when you need it.

Career Opportunities

Another common question was about career outcomes. Salaries vary depending on region and client base, but experienced bookkeepers can charge anywhere between £40 and £70 an hour in some parts of the UK.

Those who set up their own practice through ICB can start building client relationships right away after qualifying. Others prefer the security of employed roles, where AAT recognition can open doors to finance positions and progression opportunities.

Ideal Schools’ Student Spotlight stories show just how diverse the career paths are - from parents running home-based practices to professionals moving into senior roles.

Tracy’s Story

Tracy Bland is a great example of what’s possible. She came to bookkeeping after looking for a career with more balance and the chance to be there for her family. Studying with Ideal Schools gave her the skills, confidence, and support she needed to retrain and launch her new career.

Her story highlights what many learners in the webinar were feeling: it’s not just about passing exams, it’s about building a life that works for you.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Becoming a bookkeeper is about more than qualifications. It’s about freedom, flexibility, and building a career you can shape to fit your life.

If you’re considering it, now is the perfect time to begin. Explore our ICB Courses or AAT Courses, and take that first step with the support of tutors who understand both the challenges and rewards of the journey.