Mapus-Smith and Lemmon has designed a scheme for school-leavers to earn while they learn, and gain an industry-recognised qualification.

Becoming an apprentice means 18-year-old Josh Curtis is getting paid to receive industry experience alongside studying for qualifications in his chosen field. 

“I chose the apprenticeship option as you are in a professional work environment, earning high-valued qualifications as well as earning a salary. This appealed to me rather than choosing the university option,” he said.

Josh joined the Wisbech office of Mapus-Smith and Lemmon after leaving school, following his A levels in media, economics and geography. He will be both working and studying for around four years before qualifying with the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT).

After he completes his apprenticeship, working through levels 2, 3 and 4 of his AAT qualification, Josh aims to take further exams to become a chartered accountant.

“I have weekly training sessions where I am studying towards the qualification, this helps me apply new information to the actual job. As well as learning new processes day-to-day within the job,” he said.

Outside of work, Josh enjoys football, formula one and golf.

The company’s senior Partner Paul Farrow and fellow Partner Vikkie Ely both began their careers with training contracts after finishing Springwood High School.