My apprenticeship journey has allowed me to develop my career and confidence in the professional environment
Shannon Trainor, Accounting Executive
Why did you choose the apprenticeship route?
I chose an apprenticeship because I didn’t want to commit to full-time study for another 3-4 years. However, I still wanted to gain qualifications that would help me with my future career and development. This option allowed me to earn money without building up any student debt, while also having the comfort of knowing that I have, and will have, widely recognised qualifications in place of a university degree.
Your apprenticeship journey so far:
I started my apprenticeship journey back in July 2017, joining Bishop Fleming as a school leaver. I started on an AAT apprenticeship route, which I completed in March 2021. Although I have been working in the accountancy department since I started, I had a secondment to our tax department to help gain some additional technical knowledge.
In my usual role, I prepare accounts and tax reports, manage accounts, and file VAT returns. However, Bishop Fleming gives everyone the chance to branch out and undertake different roles. I have been a part of the social committee, the young apprenticeship ambassador network, and the food and drink funnel. Also, I was also given the option to pick up Solicitor’s Accounts Rules audits, which adds a lot of variety to my job.
I have also been given the opportunity to start a second apprenticeship studying ACA to become a charted accountant.
What have you learnt that has surprised you?
What has surprised me the most is how much my confidence has grown with the support and guidance from my colleagues. Although I knew that having work experience alongside studying would be beneficial, I didn’t appreciate how much more competent it would make me feel. While I understand that I still have a lot to learn and will continue to do so throughout my career, I feel confident and comfortable with my every-day tasks.
What have you got out of your apprenticeship so far?
My apprenticeship journey has allowed me to develop my career and confidence in the professional environment. When I become a chartered accountant, I will have had 8 years of practical experience behind me. On a more personal note, working over the last few years has given me the opportunity to save and purchase my first home.
What’s the best thing about working at Bishop Fleming?
The best part of my experience at Bishop Fleming has been the people.
Since joining the firm, I have met and worked with some amazing people and have found really good friends among them. Many members of the Plymouth accounting team have worked together for over five years, and we’ve all developed strong relationships with each other, to the extent that we now have an annual BBQ.
Bishop Fleming’s investment in apprenticeships, for both school leavers and graduates, also means that there are plenty of like-minded people to share and go through the apprenticeship experience together. On top of that, we have regular office socials and have even had a couple of all firm parties (with the occasional special guest)!