Student Case Studies

Assistant Accountant Level 3 Apprenticeship - Billy

Former School(s): The Priory Dorking

Past education and experiences?

I completed my GCSEs with strong grades in History, DT, Spanish, and IT. I did not have any prior experience in accounting but have always had a keen interest in the field.

Why did you decide to study at ESC?

I wanted to pursue Accounting from Year 11 but there was no course specifically available. I found the idea of studying Business too broad when I already knew I wanted to study Accounting specifically. Coming to East Surrey College I could choose a single course to focus all my attention on.

Why did you choose to do an apprenticeship? What appealed to you about this route + what were the benefits?

You get real work experience, whilst also being able to study the course you want to do. Being able to make money whilst studying and stay on a pathway to becoming qualified was a clear decision.

How did you find your apprenticeship? Where did you look, what did the application process involve?

I initially joined the college on a level 2 qualification, during my studies I was advised of an opening for an apprenticeship on the college finance team. I then applied, and a few weeks later attended an interview.

What does your apprenticeship involve?

I support the day to day running of the Finance team, and I have been ‘buddied up’ to learn my role further and ensure I am always supported. Some of my key responsibilities include completing purchase ledgers, payment runs, back clearing invoices and monitoring the mailbox. I work 4 days a week and study at college once a week.

How you find the world of work – what skills have you needed that have surprised you?

I really get along with my colleagues and enjoy working in an office environment. My confidence is growing as I need to build relationships to communicate with other staff members. It’s good to be challenged in the work environment and allows you to think on your feet more often.

How does the experience you are getting at work help you with your coursework/studies at College?

Sometimes it can be difficult to understand how something might be applied in a real-life environment, so by being surrounding by a team that I can learn from you can associate processes at work when in the classroom.

How does the training you have received at College help you with your job? Any specific examples?

I can take the theory and apply it in the real world. By learning the fundamentals of the work and the background automated systems process on team, it makes it easier to understand and develop on team.

What do you think of the course at ESC? Tutor support / Equipment/ Facilities

I really enjoy my course. My tutor is always available to answer any questions. The course material is very challenging, and you do really notice the step up, but it’s rewarding. We use a system called Mindful Education, which is a platform that structures your studies clearly and makes revising and studying really efficient.

What advice would you give to students considering an apprenticeship?

Go for it,  you’ve got nothing to lose. It is challenging but very rewarding. You will be heading into the real world of work at some point so getting that experience in earlier in my opinion is much better.

What are your future? University? Career aspiration?

I do not want to go to university. Once I’ve completed my level 3, I would like to go on to complete my level 4 and become a qualified Accountant. I’d also like to stay working in my current role at Orbital South Colleges and move into a more permanent full-time position.  The end goal is to become a Chartered Accountant but that’s a long way off. For now, it is really enjoyable knowing I have an aim and career direction.