At Gow and Partners, we believe that apprenticeships are the foundation of a strong, dynamic, and forward-thinking modern accountancy firm. Our apprentices bring fresh perspectives, enthusiasm, and a commitment to learning that fuels our growth and success. This National Apprenticeship Week, we want to shine a spotlight on our incredible apprentices and share why we see them as the lifeblood of our business.
Currently, we have three dedicated apprentices: two studying AAT and one pursuing their ACCA qualification. Their journey with us is not only about gaining qualifications but also about developing real-world skills, contributing to our firm’s success, and shaping their future careers in accountancy.
At Gow and Partners, we are passionate about driving growth and innovation. We believe that investing in apprenticeships is not just about education but about building a team that challenges conventional thinking and brings fresh ideas to the table. By nurturing new talent, we are ensuring the long-term sustainability and progress of our industry.
To celebrate their achievements and experiences, we asked them five key questions about their apprenticeship journey…
What made you choose an apprenticeship over other routes into accountancy?
Thomas: “I initially pursued a Master's degree in Mathematics at university, which provided me with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. However, I found that academic study alone didn’t fully prepare me for the practical realities of the workplace. I chose an apprenticeship because it offers hands-on experience alongside professional qualification progression, allowing me to apply what I learn in real time and develop skills that are directly relevant to my career.”
Macie: “I chose the apprenticeship route into accountancy because it offers a balance of practical experience and academic learning. By working in a ‘real world’ environment, I have developed practical skills and gained work experience. Additionally, an apprenticeship provides a clear career pathway and the opportunity to earn money whilst studying, which is a great advantage compared to going down the traditional university route.”
Elliott: “I chose the apprenticeship route into accountancy because it combines hands-on experience with academic learning. Before this, I worked a regular full-time job with no formal training, which made me realize how much more fulfilling and beneficial the apprenticeship experience is. Working in a real-world setting has allowed me to develop practical skills while also receiving ongoing training. The added bonus of academic learning, alongside earning money, makes this path far more enjoyable and rewarding compared to the traditional university route.”
How has your apprenticeship at Gow and Partners benefited your learning and career development?
Elliott: “I chose to pursue an apprenticeship at Gow & Partners because it offers the perfect balance of practical experience and academic learning, which has been incredibly rewarding for my career development. Before starting my apprenticeship, I worked in a regular full-time job without any formal training, so the shift to a role that combines hands-on work with structured learning has been a huge improvement. Working alongside an experienced professional and interacting with real clients daily has allowed me to gain valuable insights and skills that I believe are far more beneficial than traditional full-time study. The ongoing training and real-world exposure make this path much more enjoyable and impactful for my future.”
Thomas: “My apprenticeship provides immediate exposure to real-world accounting scenarios. I am gaining experience in client interaction, financial reporting, and decision-making, all while working towards my ACCA qualification. The structured learning combined with practical application has been invaluable, and I feel much more equipped for a career in accountancy compared to a purely academic route.”
Macie: “My apprenticeship at Gow & Partners has been incredibly beneficial for both my learning and career development. Working alongside an experienced professional has given me valuable workplace knowledge. I truly believe the exposure to the practical side, talking to real clients on a daily basis, and gaining experience is more beneficial for anybody than traditional full-time studying.”
What’s been the most valuable skill or experience you’ve gained so far?
Macie: “I would say that gaining hands-on experience with many accounting software’s has helped my technical skills and put my studies into real-life scenarios. Working in a professional environment has also strengthened my communication and allowed me to use my initiative in situations.”
Elliott: “The most valuable experience I've gained so far is learning how to adapt to different situations and think on my feet. Working in a professional environment, especially when dealing with clients and handling various tasks, has helped me develop problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of how to approach challenges in a practical way. This hands-on experience has taught me how to be more confident in decision-making and improve my time management, both of which are crucial for my growth and future success.”
Thomas: “One of the most valuable skills I’ve developed is the ability to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Through my apprenticeship, I’ve learned how to apply numerical reasoning to financial planning and business strategy.”
Would you recommend an apprenticeship to others considering a career in accountancy?
Thomas: “Absolutely. An apprenticeship provides a level of practical experience that other forms of study can’t offer. Not only do you gain a recognised qualification, but you also build real-world skills and industry connections that make transitioning into full-time employment much smoother.”
Elliott: “Absolutely, I would recommend an apprenticeship to anyone considering a career in accountancy. The opportunity to gain real-world experience while studying is invaluable. It allows you to build practical skills, understand the day-to-day workings of the industry, and interact with clients, all while earning money and not losing it to student debt. The apprenticeship route provides a clear career path and ongoing training. It’s a great way to get hands-on experience and set yourself up for long-term success in the field.”
Macie: “I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship to others. It’s a fantastic way to gain real-world experience while working towards a professional qualification. Plus, earning money while you learn means there’s no student debt, and you can start building your career straight away. If you’re looking for a direct and practical route into accountancy, an apprenticeship will be the best decision you could make.
What are your future career aspirations, and how do you see your apprenticeship helping you achieve them?
Elliott: “My goal is to become a fully qualified accountant and eventually take on a senior role where I can contribute to the financial success of businesses. One of my long-term aspirations is also to train and mentor new apprentices, as I was once in their shoes and understand how valuable guidance can be. I believe I can offer them support and share the knowledge I’ve gained through my own apprenticeship journey. This apprenticeship is helping me build the skills and experience I need to achieve these goals, while also preparing me for the responsibility of training others in the future.”
Macie: "My future career aspiration is to become a fully qualified accountant while gradually taking on greater responsibilities and advancing into a key role within Gow & Partners. My apprenticeship is helping in achieving these goals, as it equips me with hands-on experience, in-depth knowledge, and strong communication skills—areas that purely theoretical study cannot fully develop."
Thomas: “I aspire to become a well-rounded and highly skilled accountant, with expertise in financial management and strategic planning. My apprenticeship at Gow and Partners is giving me a strong foundation in both technical knowledge and workplace experience.”
A Message from Our Director
"At Gow and Partners, we’ve witnessed first-hand how the apprenticeship model strengthens not only the individual but also the business as a whole. And as someone who began their career as an apprentice, I can say from my own personal experience that this route provides invaluable opportunities for growth and development."
"I will forever appreciate the hands-on training and deep-rooted expertise offered to me while undertaking my own apprenticeship with Alexander Gow— the origin and founder of our company— prior to his retirement in 2020, and my new journey as director. Now, as I mentor my own apprentices and watch them thrive, I am moved to see how full-circle the experience has come."
We look forward to seeing our apprentices reach new heights as they continue to grow into skilled professionals, shaping the future of our industry, and paving the way for the next generation of accountants.
If you’re interested in learning more about apprenticeships at Gow and Partners, we’d love to hear from you, so do feel free to get in touch. The future of accountancy is bright, and our apprentices are at the heart of it!
Set Yourself up for Success
Did you know that we run the highest rated accountancy firm in Blackburn with Darwen?
Book your 30 minute discovery call today— enjoy a relaxed, no-obligation chat with one of our qualified accounting advisors. We can assess your situation and determine how to best serve and add value to your business.
Alternatively, you can send us a message with any queries (big or small), and one of our team members will get back to you promptly.
Related
