Phil, can you explain what appeals to you about taking on apprentices?
I like taking on apprentices because the candidates already have an interest in business and finance and have a willingness to learn. Often the GCSE’s and A Levels they have studied direct them down this path.
What do your apprentices add to your business?
I find that the apprentices on my team bring a keenness to learn to the business. Working with them gives me an opportunity, and a reason, to step back and ask why we do certain things in a certain way and to question if there is a better way.
How do you see your apprentices progress during their apprenticeship?
As the apprentices’ progress through their course, their knowledge increases and what they have learned can be translated into the work place.This means that the level of work they can be exposed to increases which is good for me as well as them.
That all sounds very positive. If I can now turn to you George, what do you feel that you are getting out of your apprenticeship?
The best part of doing my apprenticeship is the support received not only in the classroom but also in the workplace. This enables me to constantly progress my knowledge.
That’s great to hear. What led you to doing your qualification as an apprentice?
I knew that training as an apprentice would give me the opportunity to learn while gaining valuable work experience. The main benefit of working as an apprentice is that I am able to use the skills learnt in the classroom immediately in the workplace.
We hear that a lot! You attend our classroom courses for your AAT studies, what do you like about studying in a classroom?
The best thing about the classroom courses is their relaxed and interactive nature. This means that any issues or problems that arise with my understanding can be dealt with quickly.
How do you find the tutor team at First Intuition?
My tutors at First Intuition are always supportive, extremely knowledgeable and available to answer any questions.
Are there any other aspects of your time at First Intuition that you like?
I like the way the studies at First Intuition are structured and the way it is presented by the tutors. It is a huge improvement on the learning environment I experienced studying Level 2 at another college.
Finally, George, what plans do you have for the next few years?
In the short term, I am concentrating on completing my AAT qualification and my employment requirements at Bidwells. Looking further into the future I expect to progress my studies in accountancy by studying for a further qualification.
That sounds like an excellent plan, George. Your AAT studies will give you a great platform to move onto whichever of the chartered accountancy qualifications you think will best suit your career ambitions.
And back to you Phil, do you plan to continue bringing apprentices into the business?
Yes, I do expect that we will continue to recruit apprentices primarily because of their enthusiasm. The support and learning they receive while undertaking their study courses, mirrors the support and exposure they get in the work place, for everyone’s benefit.
How do you find the support that First Intuition provides?
From an employer’s point of view, I value the support that both myself and my apprentices receive from First Intuition. It is relevant, informative and timely. If there are any issues, these are addressed swiftly and I also like the fact that successful progress by my staff is highlighted just as quickly.
Are there any aspects of the service delivered by First Intuition that you particularly value?
I appreciate the progress reports that I receive from First Intuition, which include tutors’ comments on my trainees’ attendance, understanding and progression. From the detail in the comments you really feel that the tutors have taken a keen interest in each individual student.
Does this mean that we can ask you to recommend us to other employers?
Yes, I would recommend First Intuition to other employers, primarily because of the support received by not only my apprentices, but also by myself, in understanding my team’s progression.
In a nutshell, what do you like about working with First Intuition?
Ultimately the things I like the most about First Intuition are their professional but relaxed approach, the informative progress meetings and reports I get, and the enjoyment they bring to the courses studied by my apprentices.
That’s great to hear Phil. We are really glad that our hard work is appreciated!
