A Lucan-based woman who came to Ireland from China, has gained one of the top marks in the country in the Accounting Technicians Ireland (ATI) Diploma exams.

Qing Wang (43), who works at Ballyfermot Family Resource Centre, obtained the qualification, recognised as the fastest pathway to a fulfilling and rewarding professional accounting career, with flying colours.

The mother of two studied online through Tallaght Training Centre and says she enjoyed it so much she may continue her learning.

“I had worked for a couple of years in the accounting department of a County Wicklow company a long time ago, and was looking for similar work,” said Qing.

“But I had a limited knowledge of accounting and not enough experience.

“So, I began looking at accounting courses and completed a different programme with another college that did not carry the same weight as the Accounting Technicians Ireland Diploma.

“An accountant friend told me many companies make a point of hiring accounting technicians. I researched it and found that job seekers like me could apply to take the Accounting Technicians Ireland Diploma through the Further Education and Training Course Hub (FETCH), with fees paid.

“I was very excited. The online option could not have been more suitable for me. It allowed me to manage my time, taking classes live or watching recordings of lectures.

“Because my English is not as good as I would like it to be, watching recordings let me replay what I did not understand.

“More importantly, I had two children at primary school so I could manage my time. When I realised how flexible the programme was, I immediately submitted my application.

“The lecturers were great. Because I would study late, I would send night time emails, which would often receive an instant reply.

“Since I went back to work I have found the practical knowledge I have gained to be invaluable.

“I am really happy with the way things worked out. My confidence has grown and I am thinking about studying further.”

Enrolment for the next academic year of the Accounting Technicians Ireland Diploma, starting in January, is now open.

Accounting Technicians Ireland provides a nationally and internationally recognised accounting qualification, and graduates are employed in industry, commerce, private practice and the public sector.

The highly-regarded professional qualification can be obtained in as little as two years. Study can be full-time, part-time, and online.

Accounting Technicians Ireland Diploma courses are open to school and college leavers, mature students and people working in business, industry or small practice but who, as yet, have no formal training.

The qualification opens a world of employment opportunities to graduates across a broad range of accounting and finance roles and enables students further progress to senior financial management posts.

Holders of the Diploma are highly-regarded qualified professionals working at all levels of finance throughout the private and public sector, industry and commerce, and in accountancy practices.

The two-year Diploma for Accounting Technicians programme can also be the first step to a full qualification in accountancy.

Many ATI graduates progress on to other professional bodies in order to further enhance their careers as fully-qualified accountants.

“There is continuing strong demand for accounting and financial skills in industry, practice and the public sector, with many employers supporting their staff by meeting programme fees,” says Gillian Doherty, Chief Operations Officer at Accounting Technicians Ireland.

“We work closely with employers to ensure the Diploma qualification prepares our graduates to succeed in the workplace.

“Through our flexible online programme, and partnership with colleges and training providers across the island, students are able to gain a professional qualification whilst working remotely, where required, and living in their local area.

“Graduates go on to join a supportive members’ network of Accounting Technician professionals who occupy the full spectrum of accountancy and finance roles.

“Through Membership of ATI, graduates benefit from regular training and career support, ensuring the continued relevance of the Accounting Technician qualification to the wider professional environment.”

See accountingtechniciansireland.ie for details.

Accounting Technicians Ireland