AAT community: actions taken in response to the Members Survey feedback

You said it, so we’ve done it. Thank you to everyone who took the time to share their thoughts in the recent Members Survey. Watch the video above to see the actions we’re taking based on the results.

How can AAT help members adapt to introduce AI into their workplace?

In the 2026 survey, members told us they want AAT to help them adapt to AI, and employers in AAT’s Employer Survey also highlighted AI as a critical skills gap.

This is one of the bigger themes covered in the survey, so we have listened, and we are turning that feedback into practical learning you can use now:

You said: help us build confidence with AI and understand how to get started.

We did: launched Technology and artificial intelligence essentials for finance, now available in the AAT store.

We did: built a two-hour AI e-learning course, shaped by 2025 membership survey feedback on three barriers: what AI can do, what it is safe to use it for and how to start using it.

This new e-learning course covers AI basics, compliance and ethical considerations, and practical examples of how AI can be used in accounting.

By August, members will have access to additional E-learning on VAT essentials, public sector finance, Excel financial modelling, personal tax, financial reporting and ESG.

We are also developing training on creating an AI policy for accountancy businesses and working with new trainers to expand our AI content further.

How can AAT help members boost employer relationships?

Members told us they want stronger links with employers and clearer routes from learning into real opportunities. We have listened, and we are taking practical action to open more doors.

You said: you want more opportunities to connect, especially with employers.

We did: our UK Business Development team is proactively engaging new businesses to create more opportunities for students, including apprenticeships.

Since 1 April, these employer relationships have created 166 new job opportunities! We are also increasing employer awareness of the Careers Hub so more roles are posted directly to the AAT community.

How can AAT help members improve their community connection?

Members told us they want stronger peer connections, practical support and more ways to feel part of the AAT community. We have turned this feedback into clear actions.

You said: help create more opportunities for us to connect.

We did: we are building micro-communities that cut across sectors and disciplines, enabling members to build likeminded connections and get peer to peer support. At the moment we have a Practice Owner community and a Bookkeeper Community.

Public Sector and industry communities are being rolled out next quarter so more members can find likeminded connections and peer-to-peer support.

We’re launching a formal advocacy programme is in July, making it easier to get involved and advocate for AAT if you want to share your story. Our online discussion forums, including threads on regulatory changes such as MTD, have also been refreshed.

Don’t forget, the annual AAT Connect event is there to help members network and build connections. Taking place on Friday 6 November at The Brewery in London, the event will put AI and career progression on the programme, alongside our regional face-to-face branch events.

Want to have your say? Get in touch and let us know your thoughts: [email protected]

Harry Rogers is AAT Comment’s news writer.