Behind the Numbers: Q&A With Accounting Adult Learner, Rebecca Yahiya

14 May 2025

Professional Studies

As part of Learning at Work Week 2025, we're celebrating our dedicated adult learners who study alongside work to progress in their careers. Rebecca Yahiya who studies the part-time Level 4 Professional Diploma in Accounting shares her experiences of studying at NSCG and how the AAT programme is helping her to make a real difference to the business community.

Studying AAT has given me the confidence to make a real difference in my workplace. Life can be so busy, but the hard work definitely pays off.

Rebecca Yahiya, Level 4 AAT Diploma in Professional Accounting

Why did you decide to study a part-time AAT course at NSCG?

I chose to study at NSCG as it has a good reputation and is close to home, so this makes life a lot easier. I work as a Financial Crime Investigator, so I initially began studying to help with my career progression. Since studying at NSCG, I have progressed from AAT Level 2 to Level 4 and I now have aspirations to change career and qualify as a Chartered Accountant.

How does the course help you back in the workplace?

Before I signed up for an AAT course at NSCG, I had no idea how to use spreadsheets, but I’ve now learnt that you can use them for so many different things. At work, I often have to review account activity to see if there is any suspicious transactions and this course has given me a good working knowledge of how businesses work. I was recently recognised for preventing over £50,000 being returned to a business that had fraudulently claimed a refund from HMRC, so this was something I was really proud of.

How do you balance your work commitments, study and home life?

Some weeks can be difficult, but I know that in the end it will be worth it. I mostly complete homework or revise in sections as I find it easier to manage my time that way. For example, I try to do around 30 minutes each day rather than a few hours all at once.

How have your tutors supported you on your journey?

There have been times when I have had to miss lessons, but I have always been fully supported when catching up with things I’ve missed. The tutors are always available via email for any questions I’ve had throughout the week, so I know that I don’t need to wait until the next lesson to find anything out.

What’s next for you after you complete the course?

I hope to aim towards Chartered Accountant status in the near future.

What would your top tips be for anyone looking to study an AAT course?

If you’re thinking of doing the course, you need to be prepared to invest some time outside of college hours to get the most out of it. Life can be busy, but it’s so worth your time and energy.