James Marshall

I started working in Council Tax in 2021, prior to that I had worked in Housing Benefits for over 10 years so it was a big change and a much different mindset was required. As the Senior Officer in the department, the IRRV qualification was an essential criteria to my role, so basically I had no option but study for it, however, I was happy to do so as I realised it would help me get to grips with things in terms of expanding my knowledge and learning all the new legislation I was faced with and having to deal with on a day to day basis. 

I found the online, distance learning method of studying suited me very well as I was able to dip in and out when I was able to, giving me the flexibility to choose when I did the studying. The modules that are available via the online portal were a great source of information, and the tasks and questions at the end of each module were a great way of practising exam questions. The feedback from my tutor was invaluable as it meant I knew I was on the right track and approaching the questions in the right way. The pre-exam courses were also really beneficial as they helped bring things into focus and gave a good insight into the specific topics and questions that may come up in the exam, the availability of past papers also helped with this.

I would definitely recommend studying for the IRRV Certificate, it has certainly helped me in my current role and I’m sure it will help me with any future career progression.