Case studies: Outsourcing trainee accountant: Darren Ambler

Darren graduated from the University of Sussex with a degree in physics. After working as a supermarket manager, he decided on a career change. He completed the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) qualifications up to Level 4 and is currently studying for the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) qualification. He works as an outsourcing trainee accountant for Littlejohn LLP, a mid-tier accountancy firm.

After graduating I originally wanted to work in aviation but, after narrowly missing out on a job as an aircraft engineer, I took up a position with Tesco, with a view to changing my career when possible. Eventually I was given my own store to manage and then worked in several different locations, helping to turn loss-making stores into profitable ones.

In 2009, I decided that I had accomplished all I wanted to in my career with Tesco. I wanted a career that more closely used my natural numerical skills and decided on accountancy. At a time when the country was in the middle of a recession, however, the employment agencies were not very optimistic, with one saying I would never get a career in this field as I was competing against many qualified accountants who were also out of work and looking for jobs. This only made me more determined, but clearly the best way forward was to become qualified. After researching the AAT on the internet, I enrolled on a course at my local college.

I studied AAT fast-track Levels 2 and 3 (financial pressures meant I had to be part-qualified and working as soon as possible), and AAT Level 4 Diploma in 2011. I studied full time for one very good reason: the course included three weeks' unpaid work experience in an accountancy firm. It was my intention to use this period to impress the firm I worked in, so that I may possibly be offered employment when I had finished my course.

The only real hardship I encountered was being able to support myself during the two years it took me to become part-qualified. I had to get part-time employment in the evenings, so time was always short.

I have worked for Littlejohn LLP since July 2011 (this was the firm I did my work experience with). As well as studying for the ACCA qualification and showing commitment to passing professional examinations, I am also being trained to assist in all aspects of bookkeeping. My day-to-day role is varied; accounting duties include reconciling accounts payable and receivable, preparing VAT returns, maintaining cash books, sales and purchase ledgers, and using accounting systems such as Sage and QuickBooks. I'm also involved in assisting the outsourcing manager, supervising staff and meeting clients.

Although the subject of my degree wasn't particularly relevant, the AAT qualification effectively allowed me to obtain employment with Littlejohn LLP, as the entrance criteria was to have a degree, a good pass at AAT (all first time passes) and to pass two entrance exams set by the HAT Group of Accountants (in maths and English). I would say that what I have learnt in AAT is nothing short of essential in my job and would recommend it to anyone considering a career in accountancy.

I have elected to become a full member of the AAT (MAAT) and I will soon have the required work experience to achieve this. I think this is important because being able to use the letters after my name shows clients that I am both qualified and experienced in the field within which I operate.

The reason for my change of career was to improve my work/life balance. I would like to settle and start a family at some point in my life, which would not have been possible with my previous career. AAT has allowed me to study the foundations of a career that ultimately will enable me to achieve this goal.