Running your own business often means juggling ten things at once. You’ve got customers to deal with, admin to manage, and probably a to-do list that never gets any shorter.

So the idea of taking on a qualification—particularly in something like bookkeeping—can feel like one commitment too many.

But here’s the truth: you don’t need to pause your business to build new skills. You just need the right kind of course, and the right kind of support.

And that's where Ideal Schools comes in.

Why Learn Bookkeeping as a Business Owner?

Many people come to bookkeeping because they want to start a business. But plenty come because they’ve already started one—and now realise how useful bookkeeping knowledge really is.

You might want to:

• Take control of your own accounts
  
  

• Offer new services to clients
  
  

• Understand cash flow, VAT, or self-assessment better
  
  

• Prepare for Making Tax Digital
  
  

Whatever the reason, bookkeeping can give you a tighter grip on your business finances—and help you grow more confidently.

Study That Fits Around You

At Ideal Schools, we know most of our students aren’t full-time learners. They’re running businesses, raising families, or returning to study after a break.

That’s why every course is fully home-study, self-paced, and supported by real people who understand that flexibility isn’t a nice-to-have—it’s a must.

You can study in the evenings, over weekends, or in short bursts between other responsibilities. There are no term times, no live deadlines, and no pressure to finish within a set number of weeks.

This isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s learning that adapts to your reality.

Not Just Theory – Practical, Relevant Skills

When you're already working with customers or running a business, theory only gets you so far. What you really need are skills you can use right away.

Our ICB Courses and CPD options are designed to reflect real-life situations—not just exam criteria. From completing VAT returns to managing year-end accounts, the content helps you solve problems you’re already facing day to day.

This is knowledge that pays off, quickly.

You're Not On Your Own

Some online training providers rely on automated marking, bots, or FAQs that leave you digging through forums to find help.

We don’t.

At Ideal Schools, every student gets a named tutor—someone with years of experience in the field, who marks your assignments and is available to answer questions directly.

You can read more about that here, but in short: when you need help, you’ll get it. From a human. Who cares.

What Other Business Owners Are Saying

We've seen all kinds of professionals take on bookkeeping training—graphic designers, dog groomers, cake makers, electricians, photographers, even driving instructors.

What they all have in common is a desire to understand their finances, offer something more to their clients, or set themselves up for the future.

Many have even gone on to offer bookkeeping as an additional paid service, expanding their income streams without the need to take on extra hours.

It starts with a course—and a bit of belief that it’s possible.

Your Time, Your Pace, Your Career

Nobody is pretending it’s easy to run a business and study. But it is doable. And when it’s done right—with flexible materials, practical content, and genuine support—it can actually feel energising.

It’s something that adds to your professional growth, rather than pulling focus from what you’re already doing.

And the beauty of bookkeeping is that it complements almost any business. If you work with clients, handle income, or manage expenses, the skills will be relevant.

Enrol This Month and Get Even More Support

This June, if you enrol on our MICB course package, you’ll also receive the Self Assessment Taxation module completely free. That’s a huge bonus if you’re managing your own returns—or planning to help others.

We’re also giving away our brand-new “Getting Started in Practice” guide to everyone who signs up this month. It’s packed with insights from tutors and alumni about setting up and succeeding as a self-employed bookkeeper.

So if you’ve been waiting for the right time to learn something new, this could be it.

Learn More or Get Started Today

Explore our full ICB Courses or look at our CPD options to find what fits your goals.

Need help choosing? Get in touch. We’re happy to talk it through.

Because running a business shouldn't stop you from building something even better.