From Apprentice to Professional: Harlee’s Journey at R J Francis & Co

11 Feb From Apprentice to Professional: Harlee’s Journey at R J Francis & Co

Starting the Apprenticeship Journey

What made you decide to pursue an apprenticeship at R J Francis & Co?

I wanted to pursue an apprenticeship because it gave me the opportunity to earn while gaining qualifications and vital knowledge in accountancy. R J Francis & Co is well-established in the accountancy sector and offers a wide range of financial services. It felt like the perfect place to start.

What were your expectations when you started, and how did the reality compare?

I didn’t really have any expectations as I had no prior experience to base them on, but I quickly discovered I really enjoyed the job, and my colleagues were all lovely and welcoming.

The Apprenticeship Experience

What skills did you gain during your apprenticeship that you still use today?

I have developed many key skills through my apprenticeship. Teamwork, resilience, communication, and numerical problem-solving are all new skills that I use daily in my role. I can’t overstate how much the support I’ve received has helped with my growth.

Did you face any challenges with the apprenticeship, and how did you overcome them?

My biggest challenge was being too hard on myself when I struggled with something, especially when I knew I was capable of doing it. Fortunately, my colleagues have always been incredibly supportive, helping me work through any difficulties. The whole team at R J Francis & Co goes above and beyond – whether it’s taking the time to explain something, or even finding different ways to help me understand if the first explanation doesn’t quite sink in.

What was your proudest moment or biggest achievement?

Definitely learning how to post a set of accounts to our accounts production software. I felt especially proud when I could identify, investigate, and correct discrepancies between my working papers and the draft accounts.

How has your role evolved through your time as an apprentice?

My responsibilities have grown significantly. I’ve gone from supporting colleagues with basic tasks in the early days, to now being trusted to complete VAT returns independently, working on year-end accounts. I am continuing to take on even more complex jobs as time goes on.

The Value of Apprenticeships

Why do you think apprenticeships are valuable for both individuals and businesses?

For individuals, apprenticeships provide an opportunity to earn while they learn, gain experience without accumulating student debt, and test whether a career is right for them before committing years to study. For businesses, apprenticeships offer a chance to train someone from the ground up to fit the company’s way of working. There are often government incentives available to help support this, and the training providers offer continued support throughout the process

What would you say to a business considering hiring an apprentice?

If you have the time and knowledge to train an apprentice properly definitely go for it! Taking the time to find the right apprentice for your business is key, but when you do, the long-term benefits are well worth it.

Advice for Future Apprentices

What advice would you give to someone thinking about starting an apprenticeship?

If you’re interested in an apprenticeship, just go for it! Remember, you’re not expected to know everything from the start – all you need is a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. It’s a long process, but it’s definitely worth it in the end.

How do you see your career progressing, and how has your apprenticeship shaped your goals?

I still have a long way to go before reaching where I want to be, but I’d love to progress into a management role with greater responsibilities once I’ve gained the necessary experience. My apprenticeship has been key in developing the teamwork and communication skills I’ll need to get there.

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