By Sophie Cross StudentsHow to feel part of the community when studying remotely20 May 2025 There are plenty of ways to create a sense of community and stay connected, even when you’re studying from your kitchen table.More and more AAT students are choosing to study remotely, away from the traditional classroom setting. While this option offers fantastic flexibility, it can sometimes leave you feeling a bit disconnected from your peers… but there are number of ways to change this.Finding your remote study communityOne of the myths about remote learning is that you’re on your own. However, there is a vast community of fellow students out there, where you can access forums and social media groups at any time.Student Paula Rutter said: “Always ask for help and don’t be afraid to reach out to a group or a tutor. No question is ever silly. Everyone ahead of you was at the place you are at one point, and nobody will judge you. Remember, it’s not a race; we all learn at different speeds.”There are several options to help find that community spirit while studying remotely:How to link up with peers onlineAAT offers several ways to connect with other students:The Online forum – Ask questions, share tips and connect with students at the same stage as you.The Learning Portal – Access study materials and connect with fellow learners.The Wellbeing Hub – Find resources to support your mental health during your studies.If you are stuck on a tricky concept, posting on the AAT Forum means you will get different explanations from people who have recently learned it themselves, which can be easier to understand than the textbook.Social media groupsSocial media can be a brilliant way to connect with other AAT students. These groups can be fantastic for moral support, study tips, and sometimes even job opportunities.AAT Distance Learning Group – Connect with other remote learners.Accounting Student Network – Share resources and ask questions.AAT student Tammy said: “I think the best way to feel part of the community whilst studying remotely is to join the Facebook groups for AAT bookkeeping and accounting. Also, become a member of the WhatsApp groups for the different units of AAT. All are very helpful outside of attending a classroom or speaking to a tutor.”Make the most of your training providerDon’t forget that your training provider is there to support you:Join any online seminars or tutorials they offer.Make use of tutor support hours.Ask if they can connect you with other remote students.Check if they have their own online communities.Creating your own study circleYou can set up your own remote study group or Facebook group. Here’s how:Start by reaching out to people in your course or on AAT forums.Set up a regular video call (weekly or bi-weekly works well).Create a shared online space (like a Facebook or WhatsApp group) for notes and resources.Take turns to explain difficult concepts to each other.Hold each other accountable for study goals.As well as discussing course content, in virtual study sessions, you can quiz each other on key concepts, work through practice questions together, and share resources and celebrate big and small achievements.AAT student Emma-Louise Waple started her own Facebook group which is growing daily.She said: “Without that group, I wouldn’t be where I am now. The support I get from other students and tutors is beyond belief. They are a real support network for me and others. Together, we answer questions, not just on study material, but on our future goals.”Fellow student Cheryl Yearwood continued: “We have a wonderful group, and the support is not just about accounting and bookkeeping. The group shines with the patience and kindness that is offered when we feel worried or anxious about anything going on in our lives… that is a special gift to receive and a privilege to be part of such a wonderful group!”Paula Rutter added: “Gin Lalli’s ‘Stress Bucket Solutions’ podcast episodes were recommended to me, and they are really good to listen to for a moral boost.”Balancing independence with connectionThe brilliant thing about remote study is the independence it offers, but that doesn’t mean you need to feel isolated. You might want some days dedicated to solo study and some when you connect with others.It can take time to find what works for you, but make sure you’re getting some sort of face-to-face interaction (even small ones) and time outside daily, so your emotional resilience doesn’t take a hit and you don’t get digital fatigue.Remote study offers the best of both worlds: the freedom to learn at your own pace, combined with the opportunity to connect with a seemingly endless supportive community of like-minded people.With the right approach, you can create a remote learning experience that’s productive and enjoyable. You’re part of a growing community of AAT students who are proving that remote study is a rewarding path to qualification.Staying motivated when studying aloneWithout the structure of regular classes, maintaining motivation can be tricky. Make sure you put these things in place to give yourself the best possible chance of keeping your enthusiasm levels high:Set up a dedicated study space, even if it’s just a corner of a room.Create a realistic study schedule, put it in your calendar and stick to it.Break down your learning into manageable chunks. Use a tool like Trello with kanban boards to plan your learning.Make yourself a ‘done’ list to move things on to from your ‘to-do’ list, and reward yourself when you hit milestones.Further readingCoping with stress when studying for your AAT qualificationsTop tips for enhancing your studies while working from home 5 easy ways to reduce workplace stress Sophie Cross is the Editor of Freelancer Magazine and a freelance writer and marketer at Thoughtfully.