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Case Study

Matthew Stubbs Speaks On His Higher-Level Apprenticeship In Accounting


Matthew Stubbs joined leading provider of Accountancy and Advisory services, Baker Tilly Mooney Moore, in 2018. He was one of the firm’s first employees to have completed Belfast Met’s Higher- Level Apprenticeship.

Matthew says, “My favourite subjects at school were Business Studies and Economics, so Accountancy seemed like a really natural fit for me. I thought about going to University but knew that a more academic route would mean taking significantly longer to qualify. I saw an advert for Belfast Met’s Accountancy Apprenticeship scheme and realised that it would allow me to gain experience right away.

“It was definitely the right decision. The Apprenticeship Framework allowed me to combine study with a work placement at prestigious local firm, Baker Tilly Mooney Moore. I’ve already been here for over two years and the time has absolutely flown in. I’m now qualified as an Accounts Technician and have just started working towards becoming a Chartered Accountant.

“When I first started, I was introduced to Baker Tilly Mooney Moore’s first higher-level apprentice, Adrien, and she talked me through what the process was like for her – which helped to calm any initial nerves! The firm has a fantastic culture and a really great team with stacks of social activities to take part in.

“I would advise anyone interested in a career in Accountancy to enrol in Belfast Met’s higher-level Apprenticeship programme. It was the best decision that I could have made. I’m on my way to becoming a Chartered Accountant, I’m part of a great firm with excellent experience already under my belt, and I have no university debt at all. Everyone faces an initial culture shock when they leave school and get into the world of work, but Baker Tilly Mooney Moore made that process really smooth.”

Baker Tilly Mooney Moore’s Audit & Assurance Partner, Joanne Small, says, “We’re delighted to have Matthew as part of the team. Whether we are recruiting for a graduate or school leaver, we always look for the same attributes, because this feeds into our firm’s strong culture.”

Like Matthew, candidates that stand out to us are those who show they have researched the company and qualification; have a passion for a career in accountancy; who demonstrate fantastic team working, and communication skills. In short, they are confident, self-aware and show they can use their initiative.”

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