Shaping employees of the future with AAT apprenticeships

Griffiths Marshall, a reputable accountancy firm in Gloucestershire, specialises in comprehensive accounting services such as bookkeeping, tax and VAT returns, tax planning, auditing, and payroll. Catering to a diverse clientele ranging from sole traders to multi-million pound corporations, the firm has partnered with GC to foster the development of the next generation of skilled finance professionals through apprenticeships. We sat down with Nuala Beardsall, Group Practice Manager, to explore the company's motivation for investing in apprenticeships as part of their strategy for business growth.

Nuala, why did your company choose apprenticeships?

We believe that apprenticeships is a great way of ensuring that our team is getting the right kind of practical hands-on experience to support their theoretical knowledge.

Tell us about the role your apprentices have within your organisation and how they can progress in your business.

Apprentices are given exposure to a variety of tasks and work for a range of clients from the word go, starting with basic bookkeeping and general business support, and moving on to simple accounts jobs. Apprentices can go as far as they are willing and able – many have stayed with us to complete their qualifications right up to Level 7.

How do apprenticeships support your company’s growth and development plans?

We believe in investing in young talent and supporting them to potentially specialise in certain areas to help meet business needs.

How has the apprenticeship programme benefited your business?

We have retained several apprentices as permanent staff following them achieving their AAT or ICAEW qualifications. The benefit to the business is that they already know our clients and they already have hands-on practical experience of the way we work.

What qualities do you look for in an apprentice?

Apprentices need to be enthusiastic, show initiative, have great attention to detail and listening skills, excellent communication and be reliable.

What advice can you give to aspiring apprentices?

Remember the importance of practising broader soft skills as well as following your studies. These are just as important when dealing with colleagues and clients. Great technical knowledge will only get you so far – people skills are absolutely key.

Would you recommend investing in apprenticeships to other local businesses?

Yes – it may be hard work but you get out what you put in.  You can help shape apprentices into your employees of the future, so that they are the ideal match for your organisation.

Accountancy apprenticeships at GC

We offer a comprehensive range of AAT-certified apprenticeships from Level 2 to Level 4. The next intake starts in January 2024. If you are looking to recruit an apprentice or upskill existing employees, get in touch with us for a no-obligation consultation.

Employer.training@gloscol.ac.uk / 0345 155 2020