Lucy has demonstrated unwavering dedication and a positive, “can-do” attitude towards her studies, resulting in many high grades in her level 3 exams. She has consistently engaged throughout the program, highlighting her continuous growth and commitment, particularly with confidence, as this has grown immensely since starting level 2.
Here’s what our Apprentice of the Quarter said in the interview:
What are you most proud of from your experience to date?
I am very proud of achieving good grades in my Level 2 and having finished this, gave me the opportunity to now complete my level 3. I feel I have been doing very well so far and have put in extra study time using the online videos to help explain some scenarios in a different way than the classroom to help me understand more complicated subjects.
What made you choose a career in accountancy? Was there anything that triggered your decision?
After my mum had gone into accountancy, I found out from her that it seemed quite interesting so wanted to give it a try and have found it very enjoyable so far.
How did you approach your studies as an apprentice, and what resources/support that FI offer did you find most useful?
I make use of the First Intuition online videos and also approach my study using checkpoints to work on areas I am less confident in to develop my knowledge, following the checkpoints with the videos to explain the scenarios in a different and more understandable way. The AAT website green light tests are also useful to identify which areas I may be struggling on and also help me to check that I am exam ready.
Do you have any study tips for other apprentices about to start their studies as the Apprentice of the Quarter?
Always make use of the mock bank, it is good to work through this as it lays out the questions as they will be in the actual exam. This also helps to understand and practise exam technique ready for the real thing.
How do you manage juggling work & study?
I complete most of my studying at home after work, and before doing anything else, I revise. I will make sure not to study too late, and only up to 3 hours a night, not every day. Often, I like to give myself a break on one day a week for socialising and to have time to refresh.
How have you been supported by your company and colleagues throughout your apprenticeship so far?
My employer allows me to attend all of my courses and always motivates me to do well. They also congratulate me on doing well, meaning I feel I am gaining their approval. My colleagues are great with extra support, especially with spreadsheets, as I was struggling with these initially and went through Excel questions with them to help understand more and become more confident.
How has this contributed to both your success with your qualifications and adding value to your employer?
Helps me understand things in greater detail, know what doing at work, but not always the why. I now understand more of the process in what I am doing now, such as double entry, as the current system shows you it is already completed, so it has really helped.
What are your goals/plans for when you finish your current apprenticeship?
After level 3, I am looking to complete L4 and aim to do well in that one as well, as I would like to become fully AAT qualified. I will then decide from there if I would like to take on a level 7 qualification.
Why would you recommend the apprenticeship route for others?
It is a great way to not be left in debt, and you get plenty of extra support from tutors and coaches. You get paid to do job whilst learning which is relevant to the role at work. You can gain extra support form colleagues around you, this especially helps when they have been through the qualification before and understand the requirements around it.
Want to know more about our Apprentice of the Quarter award across the FI Network? Take a look at our article ‘First Intuition launches Apprentice of the Quarter Award!’.
Want to know more about our apprenticeship programmes at First Intuition? Take a look at our helpful apprenticeship page.