Learning and earning really does all add up
LAURA YOUNG decided at the age of 16 she wanted to pursue a career in accountancy. So instead of going to university, she opted for Pwc’s higher Apprenticeship programme.
It offers school-leavers the opportunity to gain on- the- job experience in a professional environment while they study to gain their professional accountancy qualification.
Laura, now 20, from Belfast, says: ‘At 16, I assumed the only way to qualify as an accountant was to take an accountancy degree at university. So I applied and got offers for several courses at my preferred universities.
‘however, during a visit to a careers fair in Belfast, I found out about Pwc’s higher Apprenticeship programme.
‘It sounded like a much more practical way to learn, but I was worried what my parents and teachers would think. I’m glad to say they were very supportive, so I applied for the role.
‘Before applying, I researched what each team did and found out that the transaction services team advised clients who were buying or selling businesses.
‘I had studied this in my business studies A- level course, and it was something that interested me.
‘My application was successful, so I left school in June 2014 and started work two months later.’
Laura, who has now completed a certificate Level of ACA studies and is a qualified higher Apprentice, adds: ‘In July, I will be promoted to a senior associate role and am looking forward to training our new joiners who start in September, as I did two years previously. The experience has definitely exceeded my expectations.
‘Pwc’s culture of coaching and support means I have learned a huge amount on the job in a very practical way — I don’t think I would have had that to the same extent if I had studied at university.
‘Because I enjoy travelling, it has been great to work on projects based throughout the UK — I even got to spend several weeks at a client site in holland. I thoroughly enjoy the work I do every day. I get to balance work and exam study with the opportunity to make good friends — we have a lot of fun attending the formal and informal team social events.
‘I would highly recommend this path to anyone who likes hands-on experience, wants to be challenged and pushed and would like the opportunity to work with great clients and great people.’