What do you think was the biggest factor that led to your apprenticeship success this quarter?

My approach is to do the best job that I can and if I don’t know something and can’t work it out to seek help from my colleagues. In turn, I also try to help my colleagues if they have any problems.

Was there anything that triggered your decision to choose a career in accountancy?

I studied chemistry at university, which allowed me to develop my problem-solving and critical thinking skills and continue to develop my maths. Post-university, I decided I did not want to pursue a career in chemistry but wanted a career that utilised the skills I had developed. Therefore, an accountancy apprenticeship was perfect.

What was your preferred approach to studying ICAEW? Do you have any study tips for other students and apprentices?

I will start my revision process by recapping the content from each section, especially for those topics that I found difficult in the tuition phase. I will then focus my revision on attempting exam standard questions, making sure I cover all the topics in the course. When I struggle to answer a question, I will refer to my notes and try to ensure that I understand the underlying concepts. I then attempt another question to test my understanding of the topic.

I believe that taking the time to plan your approach to the revision period is very important. This will allow you to utilise your time efficiently and make sure you cover as many topics and questions as possible before returning to college for revision. This also allows you to prepare any questions you would like to ask your tutor about.

How have your company and colleagues supported you throughout your apprenticeship so far? How has this contributed to your success with ICAEW?

My company, Bright Grahame Murray, and my colleagues have been incredibly supportive throughout my apprenticeship journey. They are all very approachable and are willing to take the time to answer questions or to help you work through a problem. Bright Grahame Murray has provided me with the opportunity to work on increasingly complex audits and accounts preparations which have allowed me to utilise and develop the knowledge and skills I have learnt during my apprenticeship. I work with a great team of people, who support my development every day.

Which qualities would you suggest a new learner looks for in a tuition provider to get the best experience from their studies?

When looking for a tuition provider, I wanted effective training delivered by approachable, knowledgeable and engaging tutors who are dedicated to helping you pass the courses, which I have found the First Intuition tutors are very good at.

How do you feel the apprenticeship route has benefitted you, and what has it added to your study experience and professional development?

The apprenticeship route has allowed me to develop additional skills, for example, through the First Intuition skills days. I also have quarterly meetings with my skills coach Milly, which allows me to reflect on my experiences and set goals to improve myself.

Do you have any goals/plans in mind for when you finish your apprenticeship?

I have enjoyed working in audit for the past two and a half years, where I have worked on a variety of clients. No two clients are the same, and each brings with it new challenges to learn from. I plan to continue working in audit, gain further supervisory experience, and develop my career as an accountant.

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