Why an apprenticeship was right for me

I wanted a career in audit as I wanted to learn accounting skills and develop a strong understanding of financial requirements and principles. Audit allows an understanding as to how a business operates, from the control environment to risk management practices. When I found out about the degree apprenticeship route, as opposed to going to university, I was intrigued about where it could take me. I sought advice from my peers, and they told me to go for it; I spoke to my parents, and despite knowing it would be tougher in the short term I joined the Not-for-Profit Audit team in 2021 as a school leaver.

Grant Thornton’s values and focus on diversity was one of the key factors in me applying to the firm. Throughout the whole application process, you get a real sense that they care about you as an individual. The focus on personal development was evident throughout, and I received personalised feedback after my online interview, something that I did not find with many other firms, and something that is really valuable.

Surpassing my expectations

My experience of the trainee programme has been even better than I expected! The support throughout the entire programme has been excellent, especially around exam periods where the team understand revision will take priority over working late and help manage deadlines.

I have formed some fantastic relationships since I joined the firm, especially colleagues who are going through the same training as me. Having these friendships and support groups is really important. It helps when things feel tough during exam periods for example, as others are going through the same or have been in the past and can offer help and guidance.

What has surprised me most about audit is how different every job is. I expected audit to be the same across each client, but whilst accounting standards must be adhered to, there is a difference in skillset for each job based on their industry and which accounting standards they use.

I’ve also had so much variety in the work I have done since joining the team here.  

I’ve also had so much variety in the work I have done since joining the team here. I have been able to work on clients from universities to streaming services, allowing me to understand many different industries and the environment in which they operate. For me, what I love about an apprenticeship is that everything that I learn, I am able to put into practice on my client work. This really helps me build my knowledge.

My proudest moment since joining the firm is being promoted, which has happened three times. My recent promotion was an out of cycle promotion, which really showed me that the firm value the progress I have made and that if we put the hard work in, it’s rewarded.

My advice to you

If I were to give anyone a piece of advice, it would be to not be afraid and go for what they want to achieve. The university route is the classic, mainstream route, meaning some may feel like this is ‘the right thing to do.’ However, the school leaver programme has been far more beneficial to me. I knew I wanted a career in finance, and it allowed me to gain first-hand experience as soon as I started my role, as well as completing the relevant studies towards my ACA and earning a competitive salary.

I would also say, don’t be afraid of rejection. I received some rejections during my search, and after each one, I learnt something new and was able to take that experience into the next application process. In many ways this is the approach I take to work as well, when mistakes happen, learn from them.

While the school leaver route does require balancing study and work for five years, once this is complete, there are many long-term benefits that can be reaped. While this may seem like a long time, the benefits can be utilised throughout the remainder of your career and once I qualify (hopefully this year), I will be in a fantastic position given the experience and qualification I have, all this despite only being 22 years old.