Emily Sergeant, 18, left Springwood High School after her A Levels and is now training with Mapus-Smith and Lemmon without accruing the amount of debt a university student may well rack-up.

“I learn a lot better by physically doing things and being able to apply what I am learning to my job which, I think, helps to create a better understanding than just sitting in a classroom. I also thought university would not be an option I would want to pick due to the debt side of it,” she said.

Emily spends half a day a week online and the apprenticeship will last around three years to achieve her Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) qualification. Becoming a chartered accountant will take a further three years.

“My long term career goal is to become a fully qualified chartered accountant and work my way up the company,” she said.

Her apprenticeship has been a very positive experience so far and Emily has passed her first exams with support from the company.

“I think a big part of that was Mapus-Smith and Lemmon giving the time and support  I needed.”

Senior Partner at the company Paul Farrow, and fellow Partner Vikkie Ely, both began their careers with training contracts after leaving our school.

Training Partner at the company, Sharon Edwards, said investing in a trainee was an investment for the future.

“We not only fill immediate skills gaps but also can shape dedicated and loyal workers who grow with the company, bringing fresh ideas and innovation along the way. Once our trainees have completed their training contracts we not only gain fully qualified accountants but professionals with hands-on experience and a deep understanding of how to perform the job.”