Martha Whittle, Tax Associate
“The apprentice route meant that I could jump start my career without going to university, and in fact would be qualified about a year faster than if I did attend university”.
Why I chose the apprenticeship route
I really enjoyed maths and technology and knew I wanted to go into some kind of problem-solving career. But, I wasn’t really sure I wanted to go down the path of university and was more interested in getting into something more hands on.
My apprentice journey
My Journey with Bishop Fleming started a year and a half before I joined the Launch Pad programme in September 2020. During my first year of Sixth Form, I learnt about the apprenticeships that the firm had on offer and worked with my careers advisor to determine which path I wanted to follow.
I went along to the Bishop Fleming open evening and found it really interesting. I got to talk to people from all of the different departments and learnt about how my career could develop as a school leaver. This route meant that I could jump start my career without going to university, and in fact would be qualified about a year faster than if I did attend university.
It was at the open evening that I heard about Bishop Fleming’s summer school program/work experience week. After applying with my CV and cover letter, I was accepted. I really enjoyed the week itself, but the main thing I took from the work experience was seeing how nice and supportive the team were at Bishop Fleming. They provided career advice and even reviewed our CVs, offering suggestions for future job applications. They also gave us insights into the field of accountancy and what to expect if pursuing a career in this field. We then did a mock interview at the end of the week which I found incredibly helpful.
After such a positive experience, I applied for Bishop Fleming and in February 2020, I went for my interview. I was slightly worried that most of my friends were following the more traditional university route, whereas I had opted to apply for an apprenticeship instead. Thankfully, my application was accepted.
I started working at Bishop Fleming during the height of Covid, and even though I worked from home, I still learned a lot and got to work with an amazing team. My friends who went to university the same year could not attend any lectures in-person, or fully enjoy their university experience. I felt like I had definitely made the best decision for myself.
What have you learnt that has surprised you?
As part of the School Leavers Launch Pad programme, I rotate around the different departments to experience all parts of the firm. I have found this to be really beneficial as I was able to gain a good understanding of each department and decide my preferred career path.
What have you got out of your apprenticeship so far?
After two and a half years, I have now done eight months each in Tax, Audit and Corporate Business Services. I have met lots of new people, and developed a well-rounded understanding of each department. This has also helped immensely with my studies, as the exams relate to all areas of accounting.
I have gained so much experience at Bishop Fleming. Not just through my work, but also from the social events and fun experiences I’ve had with the team. We went paddle boarding along Bristol harbour (I may have fallen in once or twice), two amazing Christmas parties, a visit to Thatchers Cider headquarters for a tour, an all-firm event at Ashton gate and an apprenticeship ball. I’ve now passed all of my certificate level exams and two professional exams. I’ve also made some amazing friends along the way, and I feel like Bishop Fleming has provided me with an amazing start to my career.