Case Study
Higher Level Apprenticeships Deliver Results
A new Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) in Accountancy will launch in September after a successful pilot delivered by Belfast Met, in partnership with local employers, Southern Regional College and Account Technicians Ireland. The current recruits are in their second year of the programme and are already reaping the benefits of learning the skills for a role in accountancy and securing full time paid employment in an accounts department.
Catherine Devine (19) is going into her second year of the HLA, receiving a full day of training once a week at Belfast Met’s E3 campus which coincides with her paid employment with financial service company BDO. Catherine commented on her experience so far: “I feel this experience has benefited me greatly as accountancy was always a field that I wanted to explore. Through the HLA programme I am able to study and experience accountancy in the working environment.”
Catherine experienced challenges along the way as a school leaver to moving straight into employment however she has found that the programme has been very beneficial as she gains experience and skills that have helped her excel in the accountancy profession ahead of her peers studying a full time course -
“I feel it is a much better route for this specific career area as it provides you not only with knowledge of accountancy but also with the experience of dealing with clients, preparing financial statements and implementing audits.”
The hands-on practice of essential modules which Catherine continues to learn has improved her confidence and has been an overall positive experience which is leading her to achieve her ambition to become a chartered accountant.
“I have another year of Accounting Technicians Ireland. Once I, hopefully, succeed in this qualification, I hope to continue my studies in the field of accountancy by continuing on to study with Chartered Accountants Ireland, which would last for another three years and work towards becoming a fully trained and qualified Chartered Accountant.
“I would recommend the route to anybody not only are you gaining sufficient knowledge and getting a qualification but you are also extending your skills by experiencing the working environment.”