We believe in the huge benefits of offering work experience to local students, viewing it as a core component of our commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. This practice, embedded in our sustainability report, not only enriches the students’ educational journey but also provides our business with fresh perspectives and emerging talent.
HB Accountants are passionate about supporting our Hoddesdon community
By integrating work experience programs into our operations, we are growing a mutually beneficial relationship that supports community development and cultivates a responsible business ethos.
HB Accountants most recent work experience super stars
This year already we have welcomed 7 work experience placements – read some of their experiences here:
HB Accountants welcome Freddie, Edward and Eliza this month
- Freddie is mid “T-Level” and as part of his curriculum must be in a real workplace for 7 whole weeks
- Eddie is studying A Level locally and after his work experience can list out real skills that he has gained which he could include on his CV
- We have also welcomed Eliza this month. Eliza is mid-way through her A Levels and has been working together with Freddie and is now confident using Excel for data management integrating simple formula
Q&A with HB Accountants’ T Level Placements Freddie & Eliza
Q: Freddie: What did you expect from work experience ?
A: When I first started at HB I did not really know what to expect, I came in with a completely open mind. I had met the other employees previously on a brief visit to the office so I already had an idea of the people I would be working with and I knew they were all good, friendly people
Q: Eliza Have you found work experience valuable?
A: Yes, as it has given me an insight as to work and has helped me narrow down my options for after sixth form. It has allowed me to broaden my horizons and come out of my comfort zone by doing new things and meeting new people. I was able to watch and observe the day to day jobs and lifestyle of people working full time in an office
Q: Freddie what skills have you gained during your placement with HB Accountants?
A: Freddie: I have gained many valuable skills including good office skills and social skills also. For example I have learnt how to communicate properly in an office working environment and have also learnt many valuable administration skills.
Q: Eliza: Do you feel you were mentored or just asked to work ?
A: I feel as if I was mentored, not so much that I was being constantly watched over and had everything done for me. They allowed me to get on with it by myself after being shown exactly what to do. This meant that I wasn’t relying on anyone else and allowed me to use my problem solving skills to solve problems I may have encountered without help (unless I asked for it).
HB Accountants’ believe that Mentoring is crucial and can change a student’s perspective of their abilities
Mentorship is so important to people beginning their career as they can very easily get lost in the process. Post 16 is a huge change from secondary school to whatever you go on to do next and can be a very big struggle for people who aren’t as prepared. Therefore, mentorship can be used to advise these people and support them to improve their situation whilst reminding them of the transferable skill base that they already have, but may not be aware of whilst learning new skills in the workplace.
How can work experience be a win win for both future professionals, employers and business owners
For Students:
Practical Skills Development: Work experience provides students with the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. This hands-on experience helps them to develop practical skills that are essential for their future careers.
Career Insight and Guidance: By working in a professional environment, students gain valuable insights into that industry. This exposure helps them make informed career decisions and understand the day-to-day realities of their potential professions.
Networking Opportunities: Students can build professional relationships and networks that may lead to future job opportunities. These connections can provide mentorship and guidance as they navigate their career paths .
Enhanced Employability: Having work experience on their resumes makes students more attractive to future employers. It demonstrates their commitment, initiative, and readiness to enter the workforce plus gives students something real to refer to when asked questions in interviews .
For Businesses:
Access to Emerging Talent: Businesses can identify and nurture young talent through work experience programs. This early engagement can lead to the recruitment of skilled and motivated individuals who are already familiar with the company culture and operations .
Fresh Perspectives and Innovation: Students often bring new ideas and innovative approaches to the workplace. Their fresh perspectives can challenge existing processes and contribute to creative problem-solving .
Enhanced Community Engagement and Corporate Image: Offering work experience demonstrates a company’s commitment to social responsibility and community development. It enhances the company’s reputation and strengthens relationships with local educational institutions and the community .
Increased Productivity: Students can assist with various tasks and projects, providing additional support to the team. This can increase overall productivity and allow full-time employees to focus on more strategic activities .
For our future generations:
The Directors of HB have always had a passion for recruiting and developing young talent and developing the wider team. As a training firm, we have a philosophy of “investment in people”.
As well as work experience, we offer:
- Our bespoke apprenticeship scheme offers local people the chance to learn a new skill and forge a career path. In a firm of just 15 people, our investment is significant – we currently have 6 apprentices, 40% of the workforce.
- We visit local schools and our borough’s careers fairs to talk about business and accountancy.
- We run mock interview practice and discuss CV’s.
- We produced a Fincance Guide For School Leavers pamphlet which we have distributed freely across local schools.
- Together with Herts Growth Hub, we are implementing a program where students can rotate through five different businesses in a single week (or over the course of 5 weeks 1 day per week at each business) if the school/college would be willing and are actively seeking support from other local businesses
HB Accountants are invested in people and business – please do get in touch if you would like any further information or if we can help you or your business – click here to contact us
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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