I found out about the Higher Apprenticeship at an insight day with Deloitte in London. l knew that university wasn’t for me and an apprenticeship would be good at keeping me busy and it would help me progress quickly.

After the insight day, I did a lot of online research and talked to people who had already completed the higher apprenticeship. I also looked at job forums, so I could get an idea of what companies are looking for in an application.

It’s easy to get bored with routine, which is why I like working as an audit trainee. Working in different locations and with a variety of clients means that every day is different and I find that suits me. Before starting my higher apprenticeship, I thought that accountancy was just numbers. But now I’ve realised that it requires me to have great people skills and strong problem solving abilities. 

What I like about being a higher apprentice is that I am making good use of my time and gaining valuable experience. Whilst moving to London at 18 was a great challenge, everyone at my firm was very welcoming, and it was certainly worth it.

I am due to qualify in three years, so I hope to then work towards a managerial position. The managing partner at my firm was a school leaver as well, which goes to show that there are no limits as to how far you can progress through the apprenticeship route.