A former bar tender who started on a short course at Kensington and Chelsea College to improve her computer skills is now preparing to embark on a lucrative accounting career.
Christine Murray held a variety of jobs, including as a bar tender and shop manager, before giving up work to care for daughter Maddy who was born with a heart defect. Once Maddy was able to join school full-time Christine decided to return to education.
Initially joining the college to boost her computer skills, the ambitious mum-of-one from Kilburn quickly gained her confidence. Spurred on by a love of numbers, she decided to pursue a career in accounting and took on a number of Book-keeping and Accounting courses before progressing to the industry recognised Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) course. Christine even secured a work placement at an accountancy firm through the college’s Apprenticeships department before finishing her course.
“You can never have too many qualifications, skills or experience. I did the course for myself and my daughter. I felt this was my time to develop a career that could lead to a better future and financial security”, said Christine. “I’ve gained the confidence to believe in myself and my abilities thanks to the college. I’m doing everything I can to get ahead in my career.”
Hoping to set an example to her daughter, she continued: “I want to teach my daughter to aim high and not be held back by anything. When I was working as a bar tender I never imagined I would one day have a career in accounting! I’ve come a long way in a few years and want to show Maddy that life is what you make of it.”
Six-year-old Maddy praised her mum by adding: “My mum works hard and gives me lots of cuddles. I have the best mum in the world.”
Christine was among a group of 35 students who successfully completed their AAT course at the college.
AAT is a professional qualification and membership body and only AAT approved training providers such as Kensington and Chelsea College are allowed to deliver the AAT accounting qualification. Those in possession of the career enhancing qualification, which is recognised in many countries around the world, can apply for a range of accounting and finance positions.
Since completing the course and her work placement through the college Christine has secured a job in accounting.
Kensington and Chelsea College is committed to providing affordable education and has set-up a number of fee discounts and money saving schemes to support enrolling students. For more information visit: www.kcc.ac.uk/discounts
Aged 24 or over? 24+ Advanced Learning Loans are a new and easy way to pay your course fees. For more information visit: www.kcc.ac.uk/financial_help/advanced_learning_loans.php
