Emily Neale believes the mix of practical and theoretical learning offered by apprenticeships is the best way to properly understand the subject.

The 22-year-old is currently completing the AAT Level 4 Professional Accounting Technician qualification alongside the AAT Professional Diploma in Accounting, having already achieved the Level 3 Assistant Accountant qualification with Higgs from 2019 to 2021.

She works with Higgs four days a week and spends the remaining 20% of her time self-studying and completing modules online.

Emily benefits from live group sessions with peers at the same stage of development, with a tutor on hand to answer questions.

And, crucially, Emily can also call upon the wealth of experience within the Higgs team.

She said: “I have regular catch ups with my AAT tutor, apprenticeship coach and workplace mentor to track my progress.

“I would highly recommend an apprenticeship. I’m able to put my studies into practice in the workplace, which helps me learn and understand quicker.

“I’m surrounded by colleagues who are always available to support me, answer my questions and give feedback to aid my development.

“I plan to undertake further studies once I have finished this apprenticeship. I would like to study ACCA to become a fully qualified accountant.”