Accounts Apprentice Review

My role on a day to day basis is challenging and varied. I work on a variety of accounting tasks from bank reconciliations, refunds and invoicing to producing reports and analysing data. I regularly work in Excel and using other data analysis tools to produce meaningful financial data for stakeholders. I get to work closely with my team along with working on projects with external parties and other teams in the company.

Since working at first response I have developed a wealth of skills. One of the main skills I have developed is my accounting knowledge and understanding. This includes my knowledge of tax, funding and reporting along with my knowledge of accounting systems. Since working for first response I have also been able to develop my confidence, improving my presenting skills and also my confidence when speaking with stakeholders.

I really enjoy my programme at First Response. The work and the programme are both challenging but very rewarding and have allowed me to develop a lot as an employee and student. First Response help make the programme enjoyable by providing me with support in balancing the degree and the job role so I can maximise my potential in both areas.

My programme is very well structured and organised. I have been provided with help and support from my workplace throughout the programme to ensure I can keep on top of the workload. When I started the programme my induction was thorough and ensured I was fully prepared to begin the apprenticeship.

My employer provide me with a very high level of support both with regards to my role at work and my participation in the degree apprenticeship. I have regular meetings with my manager to discuss my progression and responsibilities along with support from my workplace mentor who helps with my University work. Overall the support recieved in the workplace is very good.

I have received a relatively good level of support from my training provider where needed. I have regularly emailed my tutors to ask for support or ask questions on assignments to which I have mostly received the help and support I needed. I am also aware of the key signposted areas I can go to if I need further guidance and support.

I feel that the degree apprenticeship has had great impacts on my knowledge and understanding in the workplace. I have developed a wealth of skills about business management from my knowledge of marketing to HR and accounting which has helped me understand the roles of different parts of my organisation and use that learning to develop as a leader.

At First Response we are provided with a number of opportunities to network and get involved in extra activities. We have the opportunity to go on team building activities within our operational teams and also to attend company wide events. These events have been great in helping build relationships and trust across the business.

Yes

I would highly recommend First Response Finance to a friend. Their culture and principles are instilled within the workforce making First Response a great place to work. Furthermore their focus on developing their staff as demonstrated by their apprenticeships is great for people who enjoy continual development and improving their skills.

I would highly recommend doing your research on the organisation. Get to understand First Response's products and principles to ensure that First Response is the right fit for you. If this is the case I would highly advise browsing what roles they have available and see if any are of interest to you.