ICB Courses: Build Skills and Services with Flexibility

The ICB route is an excellent choice for those who want the freedom to work for themselves and expand their services as they qualify.

The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) is the world’s largest bookkeeping organisation, recognised for covering not only bookkeeping but also areas such as payroll, taxation, and cost and management accounting.

Members are able to extend the services they offer as soon as they complete the relevant qualifications, without the need to gain years of experience first. This makes the ICB pathway highly flexible and appealing for students who want to shape their career at their own pace.

Best suited for:

Career changers who want to work for themselves;

Parents looking for flexible, home-based work;

People interested in building a bookkeeping business with scope to add extra services.

AAT Courses: Recognition in Employment and Beyond

The AAT route is widely recognised by employers across the UK, making it a strong option for those who want to pursue roles within industry or finance departments.

Many employers specifically request AAT-qualified candidates in their job descriptions, which shows the weight the qualification carries in the employment market.

AAT is also a solid stepping stone for anyone thinking about progressing to higher-level accountancy qualifications in the future. For example, those who complete AAT can gain exemptions with ACCA and other accountancy bodies, providing a clear route to further study.

Best suited for:

Professionals seeking employment in finance roles;

Students who want qualifications recognised across multiple industries;

Learners considering progression into higher accountancy qualifications.

CPD Courses: Top-Up Skills for Professionals

CPD courses are not full qualifications, but they are extremely valuable for professionals who already have training and want to keep their knowledge up to date.

They allow you to focus on specific skills, such as Self Assessment Tax, payroll, or budgeting, without committing to a full study pathway.

CPD is also a requirement for members of professional bodies like the ICB and AAT, so it is something you will return to throughout your career.

Best suited for:

Qualified bookkeepers looking to expand their services;

Practising professionals who need to stay compliant;

Learners with gaps in knowledge who want quick, focused training.

How to Decide

The best way to choose is to look at where you want to be in three years’ time.

If you want to work for yourself and expand your services as you qualify, ICB provides a flexible and practical route.

If you want employment recognition and the option to progress to higher qualifications, AAT is a great fit.

If you already have a qualification or experience, CPD keeps you sharp and competitive.

At Ideal Schools, we take the time to talk this through with every student. Many arrive unsure, but after a quick conversation about their goals, the right choice becomes much clearer.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

No matter which qualification you choose, Ideal Schools provides the tutor support, structure, and encouragement to make sure you succeed.

Explore our ICB courses, AAT programmes, or CPD options to see what fits best.

Still unsure? Get in touch or request a call back and we can help you match your goals to the right training.

Your bookkeeping career starts with a choice. Let us help you make the right one.