I really enjoyed my time at Reigate, I met so many people and had loads of great experiences. Starting in 2020 was rather difficult after an abrupt end to secondary school due to the impact of the pandemic. However, I fell straight into place at College and loved all of my subjects. I had a strong passion in Economics and Business, this drove me towards working in the Finance industry.

Joining the Apprenticeships and Employment Pathway really helped me with applying for apprenticeships and I would really recommend this to anyone who doesn’t want to go down the University route.

Starting an apprenticeship created a strong routine into my working week. It allowed me to appreciate and utilise my free time, when studying for exams it can become challenging opening up the books after a full day’s work. However, once you pass your exams you feel that all the hard work was completely worth it.

I’ve completed the first two years in my apprenticeship working as an Accounting and Business Advisory Assistant. In terms of exams, so far I’ve completed both my Level 3 and Level 4 AAT (Association of Accounting Technician) qualifications. Later this year sees me start studying towards the ACA qualification – a three-year course which then means I can join The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.

Once I finish my apprenticeship with RSM I will be promoted to an Assistant Manager role, which means taking on a client portfolio of my own and line managing the future trainees. RSM is a great company to work for as the opportunities are brilliant, they treat all employees very well and the office environment is inclusive to all. My long-term goal at RSM is to climb the ladder further and reach Partner status.

I wish I’d known back in College just how accessible apprenticeships are – they are such a great way to pave the way for individuals to enter the workforce.

For any students looking for apprenticeships, I’d recommend starting to build a strong network through LinkedIn to ask others who are working in the job you’d like to do questions about how they feel and the choices they made to secure to their current position. And if an interview or application is unsuccessful, do ask for feedback from the employer so that you can improve for your next application or interview.

Matthew Major

Reigate College: 2020-2022

Higher education: Completed Level 3 and 4 AAT exams, now studying for ACA The institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, BPP University, while working as an Accounting and Business Advisory Assistant at RSM