The 17th National Apprenticeship Week runs between 5 – 11th February, 2024. It’s a week-long celebration when businesses and apprentices shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy. This year’s theme is #SkillsForLife – and when we review our own apprenticeship experience, we can see the newly acquired skills in action and the difference that they are making.
As most of you know, HB Accountants has proudly supported apprentices in our practice for the past 11 years. Since 2012, we have offered 14 apprenticeships to young people who gained qualifications, enjoyed on-job training and developed professional and personal skills. We are a small firm with a big passion shown in how currently, 40% of our team are on our own, bespoke apprenticeship scheme. A huge number, but these people are our future.
HB is part of the Apprenticeship Ambassador Network
To cement our commitment to future generations, we have joined the Apprenticeship Ambassador Network (AAN). This is a group of employers and apprentices who volunteer their time to encourage more employers to offer apprenticeships; whilst inspiring more young people to pursue high-quality apprenticeships.
HB wants to inspire young people to consider the apprenticeship route, raise awareness of our sector and increase diversity within it. As Ambassadors, we will share the benefits of apprenticeships with schools, colleges, employers, our professional accountancy body, and our suppliers. We do this already but being part of AAN formalises our commitment and gives us more opportunities to share.
We’re also encouraging our apprentices to join the AAN. This will create ways to showcase their apprenticeship story, boosting their confidence, and finding them opportunities to represent our business at higher profile events.
Before choosing to leave a full time job in my early 20’s, I was worried I was going backwards by looking at an apprenticeship. I’m glad I pushed past my fears and took the leap! It has been the best decision. I’ve learnt so many new skills, made new contacts in the industry, and my confidence has grown massively. I’m excited to work towards a career in an industry I am passionate about. An apprenticeship is a great opportunity to step into a sector and career you’re interested in, whilst being supported with on the job training, along the way. If you want that job you’ve always dreamed of – take the chance!
Sophie Blackmore | Level 3 Business Administration apprentice
HB Accountants
23rd place in the Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers 2023
We’re still shouting about this as we’re still so proud of it. When we were recognised in the Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers for 2023 by the Department of Education, it cemented our reputation in the local business community as the apprenticeship firm. Accountancy is not often perceived as a ‘sexy’ career but we try hard to share the benefits of working in accountancy, the future prospects, and the fun time you will have with your colleagues. We are very proud of all of our apprentices and love that the passion shone through.
Your challenge – could apprenticeships work for you?
You may be a small business, believe that young people wouldn’t be interested in your industry, or simply feel that you don’t have the time. We’re here to cut through these feelings and genuinely ascertain whether an apprenticeship could work for you. We are happy to share the myriad benefits of taking on an apprentice and tell you about all the support that is available – from financial help to training providers. Yes, some commitment is needed but it’s not as onerous as you may think. Why not reach out to us and let’s have a chat over the phone – or even better, over a coffee? You may find that an apprentice is just what your business needs.
Email Vicki on vickif@hbaccountants.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you!
The information contained above is for general guidance purposes only. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the contents are accurate, please note that each individual has different circumstances and it is essential that you seek appropriate professional advice before you act on any of the information contained herein. HB Accountants can accept no liability for any error
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