Reed Business School has a longstanding reputation for providing high-quality accountancy training. With a growing number of learners needing more flexible learning options, the school sought to enhance its AAT provision using resources that could better support all learners, both self-funded and apprentices who are looking to balance their professional studies with work or family responsibilities.
We spoke to Sarah Gray, AAT tutor at Reed Business School, about how the school has been using Accountext textbooks, question banks, and assessments to deliver greater flexibility and improve learner outcomes.
Challenges with traditional AAT delivery
Before adopting Accountext+, Reed Business School’s AAT delivery was largely centred on structured, scheduled workshops. These sessions required learners to attend at fixed times — a format that didn’t always suit those juggling full-time work, family, or self-funded study.
“Some of our non-apprentice students weren’t always afforded the option to study during work hours when our normal workshops were taking place, irrespective of whether their employer was funding their course or they were paying for themselves. We needed a more flexible option that could be tailored to suit their own life commitments”
— Sarah Gray, AAT Lecturer
Reed Business School wanted a solution that offered learners a greater variety of study options and plans without compromising the quality of support available to them.
Why Reed Business School chose Accountext
The decision to bring in Accountext+ was based on both tutor experience and the ability to offer a more modern, flexible approach to learning.
“One of our tutors had used the Accountext books before and was comfortable with them. Having that familiarity meant it was a great fit to enhance our delivery, plus, the books really support additional independent learning — they’re clearly structured and easy to follow.”
Sarah described the materials as intuitive, clear, and highly usable by both tutors and learners:
“It’s theory, then example, then straight into a question. You’re not flicking to the back of the book wondering which activity matches what you just read. That’s really helpful for when students are carrying out some extra independent learning — and it helps us as tutors when planning support sessions.”
She also highlighted the benefit of having both physical books and digital access:
“I’m a bit old fashioned — I love a physical book, and some of our learners feel the same. They like to highlight and flick through pages. But having the digital portal and the online assessments is great too. It means they can work in whichever way suits them best.”
Delivery Model
Reed Business School offers a blended model using Accountext textbooks, online portals, and tutor-led support sessions. Learners get access to the full range of resources and are encouraged to book additional support sessions with tutors as needed.
“Some learners are brilliant — they’re regimented, go through chapters, complete assessments, then book time with us to go over what they got wrong. And the results from those learners have been really good.”
The flexibility of the Accountext model means learners can study when it suits them — which is especially valuable for those with childcare or work commitments:
“We’ve got mums, for example, who study once the kids go to bed. They can go at their own pace, without pressure or deadlines, knowing that support is always on hand when needed. It fits modern life.”
Tracking and Feedback
The Accountext online platform’s auto-marked assessments and learner tracking have also become a core part of Reed Business School’s learner support model.
“That tracking is brilliant. Before a session, I can see exactly what a student got wrong and what they’re struggling with. They’ll often say, ‘Can we go through the ones I didn’t get right?’ It saves time and means we’re really targeted with our support.”
Results and Impact
While not all learners choose to book additional tutor sessions, the ones who do are thriving — especially at Level 2. Sarah says the positive feedback and strong results speak for themselves.
“They must be good because they wouldn’t be passing otherwise. And I’ve had no complaints — no one’s come back and said they don’t understand the chapters. That tells me the materials are working.”
Would You Recommend Accountext?
“Yes, definitely. The structure of the books, the blend of physical and online materials, and the way learners can self-reflect — it all makes a huge difference. It’s a really flexible and effective resource for both learners and tutors.”
About Reed Business School
Reed Business School is a specialist learning provider offering expert tuition for professional qualifications in accountancy and finance. With a strong reputation for high pass rates, personalised support, and a tranquil residential study environment in the heart of the Cotswolds, the school helps learners achieve their ambitions at every level.
Find out more about their AAT courses at: Reed Business School
