Apprenticeships: A guide for parents and carers
Supporting your child for life after school or college is incredibly important and we appreciate that as a parent, carer guardian you want to help them to make the right decision that will support them in their future career down the line.
MHA offers a wide range of apprenticeships across accountancy, tax and audit and the information below will help you to understand more about what an apprenticeship is, why it is a fantastic alternative to a university degree and how it can really help to start your child on their career path in this industry.
Meet Damian and Matt Walmsley
Damian is an audit partner at MHA. His son Matt joined MHA on our apprenticeship programme.
Here they talk about why an apprenticeship was right for Matt, why as a parent Damian felt it was a great career choice for Matt and they dispel some common misconceptions about apprenticeships.
Apprenticeships Mythbusting
Apprenticeships have changed a lot since the 1980s and 1990s and today they are an incredible alternative to a university degree, which isn’t for everyone, whilst still being seen as a well-respected and credible way to embark in many industries including accountancy, audit and tax.
Below we tackle some common misconceptions:
To get into accountancy you need a university degree
Incorrect. Although a university degree is a fantastic way into the industry, it is not the only way. Young people who join MHA through an apprenticeship find themselves on the same career path as those people who join after graduating from university.
The years spent completing their apprenticeship not only offer vital professional experience, but they earn a salary whilst completing their apprenticeship and can avoid the burden of any student debt which can be a daunting consideration for many parents and guardians as well as their children.
What is the entry requirement for an apprenticeship with MHA?
For an apprenticeship at MHA we look for a minimum of 5 GCSEs grade A*-C (4-9) including Maths and English and a minimum of 112 UCAS points at A-Level. All gained in the same year and excluding General Studies (based on the 2017 UCAS tariff).
But what is the culture like for apprentices?
We have two induction days a year, one at the start of the year and one towards the end of the summer, during these intake days we welcome all of our new apprentices together.
Similar to a university induction, all of our apprentices, by starting at the same time, begin their journey together and form those connections and friendships that are not only essential in developing in their chosen profession, but also help to form those social connections as well that are also vitally important.
The years spent completing their apprenticeship not only offer vital professional experience, but they earn a salary whilst completing their apprenticeship and can avoid the burden of any student debt which can be a daunting consideration for many parents and guardians as well as their children.
Is an accountancy apprenticeship seen as a recognised qualification?
Yes. An apprenticeship is widely accepted across the industry as a recognised qualification. Apprenticeships have evolved and developed over the years to meet the wants and needs of young people as well as the demands of professional industries such as accountancy, audit and tax.
In today’s society, young people who have completed an apprenticeship are seen as having vital practical work experience that will help them to really begin their careers. More than 83% of young people who complete an apprenticeship continue to remain in the industry in full-time employment.
Many partners at MHA have joined the firm as an apprentice and gone on to progress throughout the firm.
What about continued learning? Will my child miss out on learning and development opportunities by taking on an apprenticeship?
No. Apprentices at MHA are supported in their AAT Accounting course. The internationally recognised accounting and bookkeeping qualification which is based on real-world knowledge. From completing their AAT they will then enrol in their ACA qualification to become fully chartered accountants.
Both qualifications are fully supported by the firm as part of their apprenticeship.
Will I still get to visit college if I’m working from the office?
Yes. Although you will be based in one of our offices and you will gain valuable hands-on experience, this will be balanced with your college attendance and continued studies.
Our apprentices are supported to balance their work and study demands in a manageable way.
Is an apprenticeship expensive?
We cover the cost of your main expenses, including all of your stationery and equipment required, and your laptop. If you need to travel to college or a client site then we will cover the expenses of travel.
You won’t need to worry about financial support if you choose an apprenticeship.
Our Assessment Process
Read more about Our Assessment ProcessRead moreIn today’s society, young people who have completed an apprenticeship are seen as having vital practical work experience that will help them to really begin their careers.
More than 83% of young people who complete an apprenticeship continue to remain in the industry in full-time employment.
