From purchase ledger to professional progress: how Kamila is balancing work, family and AAT Level 4 with Eagle

Woman looking out of the window, whilst working on a laptop

 

When Kamila Lale started her AAT journey in 2022, she wasn’t just looking for a qualification — she was looking for a way to reshape her career without sacrificing her lifestyle. Now studying Level 4 with Eagle, Kamila has already passed every exam, first time, earned a pay rise, and is eyeing up ACCA in the future.

But she’s doing it all on her terms.

“I didn’t want to drop everything and just study,” says Kamila. “I’ve always worked full time. I’ve got a child. I go to the gym. I do my steps. I didn’t want to change my life just to study — and Eagle lets me keep it all.”

From entry-level to ambition

Before enrolling with Eagle, Kamila had already gained experience in purchase and sales ledger roles, but she wanted to push further. “I found basic accountancy quite boring,” she admits. “I wanted more — so I decided to study AAT off my own back. No one at work asked me to do it. I just knew I needed to level up.”

She joined at Level 3 and has taken a steady, flexible approach. “I’m taking my time, but that’s what I need. I like that no one’s chasing me or setting deadlines I can’t meet. I book exams when I feel ready — and that’s probably why I’ve passed them all, first time.”

Studying smarter with Study Buddy

One of the biggest draws for Kamila was Eagle’s Study Buddy tool.

“I read reviews and people kept mentioning Study Buddy, so I tried it out. It’s amazing — it takes a huge 300-page book and breaks it down into what you actually need to know. You go step by step, and suddenly you’ve done it. I love it.”

And when she gets stuck, the tutor support is right there — even at unusual hours.

“I usually study in the evenings, so I send emails at like 7 or 8pm, and by 9 or 10 the next morning, I’ve got my answer. At first I wasn’t sure if email support would be enough, but it works so well. They explain everything step by step with screenshots and examples. I’ve never failed an exam — that says it all.”

Building confidence, one success at a time

Kamila says her proudest moment was passing her very first exam. “I had such a long break between school and studying again — and English isn’t my first language. I told myself I’d try one exam, and if I failed, I’d stop. But I passed. That was a big moment. And when I got my Level 3 certificate in the post, I cried. I actually did it.”

She’s now preparing for her first Level 4 exam — and feeling more confident with every step.

“Level 4 is harder, of course, but I’ve got what I need. The structure, the support — nothing’s changed. I feel like I can do it.”

Looking to the future

Kamila’s success is already opening doors. “I got a pay rise when I finished Level 3, and my manager’s already said we’ll talk about promotions after Level 4. Even if I decided to go somewhere else, my CV would look so much stronger.”

And while she’s planning a break from study after AAT, the ACCA qualification is on her radar. “I get asked about it all the time at work. I’ll probably take a little break, but yes, maybe ACCA next.”

Her advice for others?

Kamila says Eagle is a perfect fit for anyone who’s juggling a busy life.

“If you’ve got a full-time job, a family, and you want to study without changing your whole life — Eagle is for you.”

She typically studies around 10 hours a week, usually Monday to Friday evenings. “I keep weekends for myself, my family and friends. If I’ve had a hard day and nothing’s going in, I just stop. There’s no point forcing it. I know I can come back to Study Buddy tomorrow when I’m ready. That’s the best thing — it fits around me.”

And if she had to sum up her experience?

“Surprisingly very good,” she laughs. “Honestly, it works.”

Ready to start your own journey?

Whether you’re returning to study after a break, juggling work and family, or just want the freedom to learn on your terms, Eagle can help you take that next step — just like Kamila. Explore our flexible AAT courses and find the path that works for you.