John has just completed his level 2 Accounts/Finance Assistant Apprenticeship and has progressed onto the level 3 Assistant Accountant Apprenticeship, John is hosted by City of Bristol College.
John’s training is delivered by City of Bristol College.
City of Bristol College have multiple sites in Bristol, with state-of-the-art facilities, expert staff and an inspiring learning environment for their students to thrive in. The college offers something for everyone in an inclusive and supportive environment.
We sat down with John to find out how it’s been going.
Tell us a little about yourself and why you decided to pursue an apprenticeship?
“I attended sixth form before beginning my apprenticeship. During my time at sixth form, I gained valuable insight through part-time employment, which helped me realise that I thrive in a practical work environment. I decided not to pursue university as I felt it would provide a qualification without the hands on experience I was seeking. Instead, I chose an apprenticeship to develop real world skills while continuing my education. This approach allows me to combine learning with meaningful workplace experience, which I believe is essential for building a successful career.”
What attracted you to this role and industry?
“My parents have always worked in this industry and spoke highly of the opportunities it offers, which initially sparked my interest. Over time, I realised that I wanted to pursue a career with a clear progression path, supported by recognised qualifications and varied roles. This motivated me to choose a route that combines practical experience with continuous learning, ensuring I can develop both professionally and personally.”
How did you hear about this apprenticeship opportunity?
“I discovered the apprenticeship opportunity on Indeed while searching for a suitable role shortly after completing my A-level exams.”
What support did you receive from SWAC when applying for this role?
“During the employment process SWAC handles everything in between my application and interview. This including an initial phone call prior to the interview and all the relevant information after the interview.”
Did SWAC help you prepare for the apprenticeship? If so, how?
“SWAC had given all the information needed for the start of my apprenticeship after the interview completion, which included both work information and college information. This was especially helpful as starting an apprenticeship can be stressful but SWAC helped ensure I had all the relevant information.”
What is a typical day like in your role with the host employer?
“I work in the accounts payable team so my day to day tasks involve inputting invoices, checking supplier statement, supplying remittances to suppliers, adding new suppliers onto our accounting system, processing GPC card payments.”
How has the host employer supported your learning and development?
“Throughout my time at City of Bristol College I have had the opportunity to move around to different teams to get a wider feel for the tasks they usually encounter on a daily basis which has allowed me to learn what each role in a finance department does and how the finance department functions. COBC have also given me the appropriate resources needed for my college studies and always allowing study support when needed.”
What new skills or knowledge have you gained since starting your apprenticeship?
“I have learned many functions within excel, I have continued to build on my communication and people skills, I have also been able to learn everything about a finance department and how each team within the department functions”
Have you faced any challenges, and how were they resolved with support from the host employer or agency?
“Throughout the apprenticeship I have faced many challenges as I have been learning new things throughout the whole time I have been here. COBC have always provided the necessary training where needed which has allowed me to excel in my role and has made me feel a valuable part of the team.”
How has SWAC supported you during your apprenticeship?
“SWAC have always been prompt to respond to any queries I have had and have always been quick to provide with any news, whether that was regarding college or work.”
Were there any aspects of the apprenticeship where SWAC’s involvement made a significant difference?
“During the start of the apprenticeship SWAC were very helpful in getting me settled into the role by providing all the right information I needed which made me feel at ease when starting a new role.”
How has the apprenticeship helped you grow personally and professionally?
“In my current role I have been able to develop my understanding of accounting and build a solid foundation to help progress me professionally. In my role I have also been able to grow personally due the help of my team who have helped get me out of my shell and become more vocal.”
Can you share a key achievement or moment you’re particularly proud of?
“One moment I was proud of was being selected as the apprentice of the month last year.”
How has this experience prepared you for your future career?
“Being selected as the apprentice of the month showed me that my hard work was being recognised, which shows I will be prepared for my future career.”
What are your career aspirations after completing this apprenticeship?
“To continue a career in accounting and keep progressing academically and professionally”
Would you recommend an apprenticeship to others? Why?
“Yes. An apprenticeship has allowed me to start my professional career whilst still being able to earn a valuable qualification. This meant that my studies were directly aligned with my work which helped me to better understand the theoretical side of the apprenticeship.”
Would you recommend SWAC to others? If so, why?
“Yes. As I have mentioned earlier SWAC are extremely helpful when handling all the paperwork when it comes to starting the apprenticeship and SWAC have also been extremely prompt whenever a query is raised with them.”
What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship?
“Apprenticeships are a great way to start your career and help gain valuable experience in the workplace, apprenticeships are also one of the best ways to learn a new job as you are gaining the knowledge from the workplace and from your studies which can both be applied to each other.”
