November 2024

3 Counties Accounts Training Service (3CATS Ltd) Secures Contract with Cambridge and Peterborough Combined Authority to Deliver Bookkeeping and Digital Finance Skills Bootcamps.

We're thrilled to announce that 3 Counties Accounts Training Service (3CATS) has won an exciting contract with the Cambridge and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) to deliver Skills Bootcamp training in bookkeeping and digital finance. This exciting partnership reinforces our commitment to empowering individuals with the skills needed to succeed in today's rapidly evolving financial landscape.

What is a Skills Bootcamp?

Skills Bootcamps are intensive, yet flexible training programmes designed to equip individuals with the technical expertise and industry-relevant skills required to excel in key sectors. Funded by the UK Government and backed by the CPCA, these bootcamps provide accessible learning pathways to help job seekers, career changers, and individuals seeking upskilling opportunities.

3CATS is proud to offer high-quality, practical training that blends foundational bookkeeping techniques with essential digital finance skills, ensuring our leaners are well-prepared to meet the needs of modern businesses.

The 3CATS Approach: Tailored, Hands-On Learning

At 3CATS, we believe in providing hands-on, practical training that goes beyond theory. Our courses are designed to meet the needs of both newcomers to bookkeeping and professionals looking to upskill or transition into digital finance roles. Our training is practical, industry-focused, and flexible, offering learners the opportunity to gain real-world experience with the tools and platforms used by today’s financial professionals.

What This Partnership Means for the Region

The partnership with the Cambridge and Peterborough Combined Authority is a significant milestone not just for 3CATS but for the entire region. By working together, we are helping to address the growing need for skilled workers in the local economy while supporting the professional development of individuals across Cambridge, Peterborough, and the surrounding areas.

The bootcamps are designed to be accessible to individuals from all backgrounds, including those looking to enter the workforce, those seeking to switch careers, and those aiming to expand their existing skill set. With these bootcamps, we aim to create a pipeline of skilled finance professionals ready to meet the challenges of the modern workplace.

Join Us on This Exciting Journey!

We’re incredibly excited about the opportunities this collaboration presents and are looking forward to helping more people access training that can truly transform their careers. Whether you're looking to launch a new career in bookkeeping or enhance your knowledge of digital finance, our Skills Bootcamp could be your first step towards a bright future.

If you're interested in joining one of our upcoming bookkeeping or digital finance bootcamps, visit our website for more information and to register your interest. We can’t wait to work with you!

March 2024

3CATS Ltd Named Best New Training Provider of the Year by AAT

3CATS Ltd, a leading training provider, has been awarded the prestigious title of Best New Training Provider of the Year by the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT). The accolade recognises 3CATS' commitment to innovation and excellence in training delivery, particularly their unique and personalised approach that caters to learners from diverse backgrounds.

3CATS stood out among competitors for their dedication to ensuring every learner achieves success through tailored training methods. By offering personalised guidance and support, 3CATS empowers learners to overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. Whether individuals are entering the workforce for the first time or seeking to enhance their skills, 3CATS provides a nurturing environment conducive to growth and achievement.

"We are thrilled to receive this esteemed recognition from AAT," said Kym, lead tutor and director at 3CATS Ltd. "At 3CATS, we believe in going the extra mile for our learners. Our mission is not only to impart knowledge but also to instil confidence and equip individuals with the tools they need to excel in their chosen careers."

The award underscores 3CATS' commitment to excellence and their unwavering dedication to supporting learners throughout their training journey. By ensuring each participant leaves the program with enhanced skills, boosted confidence, and a finely-tailored CV, 3CATS is shaping the future workforce and making a significant impact in the education sector.

"It is a pleasure to honour 3CATS Ltd as the Best New Training Provider of the Year," said the host of the awards evening. "They play a crucial role in the local community and helping those who need it most, from staff support to confidence building."

June 2022

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May 2022

3CATS Ltd are very pleased to announce that it has become an approved AAT provider having been accredited by AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians)  to deliver its bookkeeping and accounting qualifications. Only AAT Approved training providers are allowed to deliver AAT qualifications and courses and they must first go through a rigorous verification process. Students therefore know that registering with an AAT Approved training provider will ensure they receive the highest standard of teaching.

AAT is the UK’s leading qualification and professional body for vocational accountants. Its range of qualifications is open to all regardless of previous qualifications or age, and includes the AAT Accounting Qualification, as well as bookkeeping and other finance qualifications.

3CATS Ltd based at Springfield Business Park, Grantham will have room for up to 50 learners to study for Level  2 of the AAT Accounting Qualification in addition to other AAT qualifications. Courses start running from June 2022, with no strict enrolment periods, blended learning and flexible learning schedules.

Commenting on the announcement David Nelson MD of 3CATS Ltd said: “AAT qualifications provide a prominent route to a career in the accounting and finance industries. 3CATS Ltd will now offer our students the chance to add to their financial skills and gain a professional status, through the combination of our AAT course[s] and the knowledge and expertise of our tutors.”

Mark Farrar, AAT Chief Executive Officer, said: “An AAT qualification is internationally recognised, and we are pleased that 3CATS Ltd will now be offering its students the opportunity to take this significant step towards a career in professional finance. All businesses, public bodies and charities have requirements for well-trained finance staff, and students who achieve our qualifications demonstrate that they have the skills in place to carry out this important function.”

For further information please contact Kym Banks at info@3cats.org.uk or 07906086299

February 2020 pt.2

3 Counties Accounts Training Services has been chosen to be the pilot provider for Lincolnshire County Council Adult and Family Learning to deliver their IAB bookkeeping and payroll courses on an e-learning basis. This is for learners in the County of Lincolnshire, who meet the criteria of eligibility for funding (earning a low wage - under £16,009.50 or in receipt of state benefits such as, but not limited to, Universal Credit or Job Seekers Allowance). If you are interested in enrolling on a course please use the contact form to register and a tutor will be in touch with more information to start the enrollment process.

February 2020 pt.1

3CATS have extended their provision to include a regular weekly class to be held in Sleaford.

This class will take place on a Wednesday morning (09.30-12.30), during term times, at The Source Cafe, NG34 7RY. If you are want to join this class, please use the contact form to register your interest and a tutor will be in touch with more information.

 January 2018

Prestigious national award for local bookkeeping training business creates a new exciting development

3 counties accounts training services, 3cats, has been awarded the International Association of Bookkeepers Silver Centre Award for its outstanding contribution to the personal and skills development of its students, the range of IAB courses it offers and the success rate achieved by its students.

The presentation of this award was hosted by Fabian Hamilton MP, Honorary President of the IAB,  at a reception on the Terrace Pavilion of the House of Commons.

3cats, currently offers workshop courses in Stamford and Grantham as well as distance learning with course cost support from Lincolnshire County Council and the ESF for eligible local students.

David Nelson who set up 3cats four years ago in response to local demand says that he chose IAB courses as ‘they provide the best business relevant training and support for people who want a job in business or to set up a bookkeeping business working for themselves’.

‘The fact that we also have, for the last three years, secured the nationally recognised Matrix Award for Information, Advice and Guidance demonstrates our commitment to our students both during their course and afterwards when they need that support and reassurance in the first six months in their new job’.

David then revealed the next phase in the development of the business which will provide their successful students with ‘hands on’ training opportunities, starting in 2018.

‘We are developing links with a number of local businesses in Grantham who can provide real hands on training in financial administration using the skills that our students have acquired. All students who have passed a Level 2 IAB course with 3cats will be eligible to undertake this 6-8 week training placement which we will supervise to ensure that it is a meaningful embedment of their skills and of value to the employer.’ 

OCTOBER 2016

3CATS HAS BEEN RECOGNISED WITH A WRITE UP BY IAB

Link to the write up on the IAB website is https://www.iab.org.uk/news/full/3cats-helps-jobless-transform-lives-through-bookkeeping but to save you the trouble since we at 3cats are so excited you can have a read below of the write up :-

3CATS HELPS JOBLESS TRANSFORM LIVES THROUGH BOOKKEEPING

18/10/2016

When unemployed single mums turn up at a Job Centre looking for work, an offer to join a 3cats bookkeeping skills seminar can often transform their lives.

“They realise they can do something,” says David Nelson, founder of 3 Counties Accounts Training Service (3cats).

“They’ve been bowed under the pressure of single motherhood and all of a sudden, we’ve opened a door that tells them there’s something for them that they can earn money from and know they can be good at. We’re giving them back their confidence and showing them that they can achieve.”

3cats is one of few IAB-accredited training providers working closely with JobcentrePlus (JCP) and the unemployed.

It runs taster seminars for up to 12 benefit claimants at a time. They are usually over-subscribed. A regional JCP boss turned up at a Grantham seminar and liked what he saw.

After this “taster,” students can join – free of charge - a course for the IAB Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping and when successful, move on to the IAB Level 2 Certificate.

David set up 3cats with Jo Grant, an experienced bookkeeper, in 2013 to offer bookkeeping and accounts training across three counties – Lincolnshire, Northants and Rutland.

The retired senior manager in the food industry was familiar with Sage Accounting and taught at a local college. He recognised that 3cats had to be different to prosper in a competitive market.

Forging close relationships with JCP was a good way to do it. He visited centres in his target area and found a warm and supportive welcome.  “To them, we were manna from heaven. I went about it from a business point of view. I asked myself where was the need?”

The relationship has blossomed. 3cats has taken advantage of a £10,000-a-year Adult Skills Budget (ASB) from Lincolnshire County Council. It receives an average of £450 per benefit claimant per course that’s free to the claimant.

3cats keeps overheads down by renting village halls and youth centres. JCP sometimes lets it have a room for free.

However, as with all local government grants, the ASB is under pressure and may end. “More people want to do our courses than I have funding for from the county council,” David says.

This has prompted him to look for alternative sources of funding. He’s found a potential source in the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Dynamic Purchasing System for the Provision of Work Focused Activities.

After completing Levels 1 and 2, some students aim to move to the IAB Level 3 Certificate but this is not fundable by the taxpayer. “They can do it but have to pay for it themselves,” says David.

He pays tribute to the IAB, saying it has “treated us very well” and offers “the best qualifications” for working in business.

For many, bookkeeping offers an interesting role that is in demand. For David, his students, who also include “women returners” wanting to equip themselves with the latest skills, and people looking for a career change, are highly motivated. He enjoys teaching them.

“We’ve had people come to us without a job and gone straight into employment, sometimes before they’ve even finished the course. We give them real case studies. Bookkeeping is a good way into work.

“A good bookkeeper makes a huge difference to a business that needs to keep up to date with cash in, cash out, and controlling cash flow. Their impact is significant.

“You can have two or three part-time jobs because that’s easy with book-keeping. There are huge numbers of small businesses, all needing someone to add up and take away.”

The father of three grown-up sons has hit on a successful formula. 3cats not only teaches the unemployed but also bookkeepers who wish to develop their skills and others wanting to move into accounting. It offers distance learning as well as classroom teaching.

But it is perhaps the work with JCP that gives David most pleasure.

As for the future, he does not want to grow the business “to a point where we have to have a management structure and bureaucracy. It may get bigger than it is now, but we’re going to stay small. That way I can make sure that what we deliver is the highest quality.”

He loves the work and the “huge satisfaction” he gains from seeing lives transformed through bookkeeping. “It’s fantastic and what drives me.”

As for other training providers who might like to follow the 3cats model, David is “happy to help.”

AUGUST 2016

3CATS CLASSES TO START IN GRANTHAM

3cats are pleased to announce that we are expanding again & will be starting classes from Thursday 15th September 2016 in Grantham.  All courses will be available.

MARCH 2016

CLASS EXPANSION TO BOURNE

3cats are very excited to announce that we are expanding into Bourne after the Easter Holiday break.  Classes will be running on a Tuesday morning starting on Tuesday 12th April.  All courses will be available.

JUNE 2015

MATRIX AWARD

3cats are proud to announce that we passed our assessment and have been awarded with the Matrix Accreditation Award

FROM SEPTEMBER 2014

All courses offered by 3cats are now available as Distant Learner packages.

To find out more, email David or Jo at info@3cats.org.uk or call by telephone on 01780 769243

NEW IN JULY 2014

The range of courses offered has been extended to include some which have no final exams.

To find out more, email David or Jo at info@3cats.org.uk or call by telephone on 01780 769243

PRESS RELEASE - APRIL 2014

Great news for those seeking entry to a career in Bookkeeping and Payroll

3cats are delighted to announce that Lincolnshire County Council has provided funding which means that eligible students can gain professionally recognised qualifications for just the cost of the study book.

3cats provide qualifications, in Manual Bookkeeping, Computerised Accounting and Payroll, through the International Association of Bookkeepers, whose courses are recognised in business and the accountancy profession as the best foundation for a career in business and financial administration.

3cats, based near Stamford, run both local classes and distance learning programmes ensuring that anyone in Lincolnshire can benefit from this first class opportunity. Courses will start locally soon and distance learning can start at any time, contact 3cats for more information.

To find out more then go to their website, www.3cats.org.uk, email David or Jo at info@3cats.org.uk or call by telephone on 01780 769243