Apprenticeship Week 2022: Building the Future Q&A with Georgia Finch

“Build the Future” is the theme for National Apprentice Week 2022, taking place between 7 and 13 February, aiming to encourage everyone to consider how apprenticeships help individuals to build the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career. We spoke to Georgia Finch, Accounts & Audit Trainee, who started at Haines Watts Leeds on a training apprenticeship to gain her ACA qualification whilst working in practice.

Why did you choose accountancy as a career?

 After doing a degree in Sports Science, I realised that wasn’t for me. I always enjoyed working with numbers and liked the idea of learning on the job. I wasn’t sure what to expect from the job and it was tough to begin with coming from a non-accounting background, but it was definitely the right choice for me.

What made you choose Haines Watts?

My friend was on her placement year with Haines Watts and she was enjoying working there and was excelling with her learning. I like that Haines Watts offer the opportunity to work in all areas, Accounts, Audit, Payroll, Tax, Management Accounts etc. rather than just specialising in one area. I feel like it would be hard to know which area I enjoyed most and was best at without being able to try and learn a bit of everything. I also love the office environment at Haines Watts, everyone is really friendly and supportive and we are like a little family.

What is the best part of your job?

I think the best part was being given the opportunity to continually learn whilst still being paid to work. I also really enjoy working with clients monthly to assist with their management accounts and VAT Returns. It is great to be able to build a relationship with a client and it’s rewarding getting good feedback from them about my work.

What are your future plans?

I aim to qualify in November 2022 and then continue to work with Haines Watts to further excel in the areas I most enjoy whilst taking on more responsibility.

What is your advice to anyone considering an apprenticeship?

It can be tough at times balancing study and work but is worth it. I think for me personally, at 18 when I was leaving college, I had no idea what I wanted to do, but all I really knew was that the next steps were to go to university. At college it seemed the only apprenticeships available at that level were in more practical jobs such as joinery and hair and beauty. Knowing what I know now, I wish that I had started an accountancy apprenticeship straight from college rather than going to University.