As you may already know I’m an active member of the regional society NCASS (Northern Chartered Accountant’s Student Society). NCASS, along with the other student groups, organises events for those that are training to give opportunities to socialise and network, especially with trainees from other organisations. Some events also offer chances to network with students from other professions, such as the RICS (Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors). These events can therefore offer a different perspective to everyday encounters!In the past year, NCASS has organised formal dinners, football tournaments, quiz nights and a new starter’s evening to name a few. As well as giving students the opportunity to meet other trainees, these events often allow NCASS to raise money for local charities. Over the past year, we have managed to raise over £1,300 for Zoe’s Place, a baby and children’s hospice which provides palliative respite and end of life care to those with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions.
NCASS has also run events intended to provide support to students, such as a session on building resilience and managing stress, in collaboration with CABA (the charity for ICAEW chartered accountants). The session aimed to offer practical support and advice on coping with exam stress, managing difficult situations in the work place and addressing the all-important work-life balance.
As an ACA student, you and your family have access to free support and advice from CABA at every stage of your life. They provide a range of practical, emotional and financial support for areas as wide ranging as health, work and money. Although CABA works in partnership with ICAEW, it is an independent organisation and they do not share any information about the calls they take and the people they work with. This allows you to have confidential conversations regarding anything that might be affecting you or your family.
If you have any questions or to learn more about the organisations above please let me know!