Higher Level Apprenticeship - The fact that you could work alongside studying was very attractive to me!

What made you decide to enrol on HLA Accountancy at NWRC?

I initially studied Economics and Politics at university in Manchester, but dropped out of the course around the time covid started. When the covid lockdown occurred, I made the decision to leave Manchester and move back home. After a period of time back in Derry, I was still undecided about what my next steps were with regards to my career. I then heard about the HLA in accountancy which was available to study at NWRC and I decided to have a look at this further. I found details of the course on the NWRC website, and after reading the details and entry requirements, I made the decision to apply as it sounded like something I wanted to pursue as a career. The fact that you could work alongside studying was very attractive to me, as it allowed me to learn on the job and also earn a wage along with my studies.

How did you find the programme and study?

Initially, it was a bit difficult as it was brand new to me and something that I never thought about doing previously, but after a few months of learning and getting to grips with the basics of accountancy, which I believe were well taught at the college, the course became easier and it was taught in a way that could go hand in hand with what I was seeing in my working environment. It wasn’t long before everything started to click and fall into place. In my time doing the course I had 4 different lecturers and they were all very good at their jobs and were always available to discuss any problems or difficulties I faced. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is considering a career in accountancy.

How did you benefit from HLA?

I started on an apprentice contract with McDaid, McCullough, Moore a chartered accountancy practice in the city. Having passed my HLA, I was then offered a role as an accountant in the practice so I am currently working full time in my area of study. I know that a lot of people do not tend to get work in the area they have their qualification or degree due to lack of opportunities, so this option gives you a foot in the door and means you could have a job waiting for you if you pass the course, as has been the case with myself and three others I work with at McDaid, McCullough, Moore.

Are you doing any further study?

Having finished my studies at NWRC, I signed a further 3-year training contract for Chartered Accountants Ireland. I have just finished my first set of exams which is normally 5 topics with an exam for each but due to my HLA from NWRC I was awarded 3 exemptions meaning I only had to complete 2 exams in my first year. I now have 2 further years ahead of me and all going well I will become a chartered accountant at the end of it.

What advice would you give something thinking about a career in Accountancy?

If you are considering pursuing a career in accountancy, I would definitely recommend doing the HLA through NWRC. There are various benefits to doing so such as having on hand experienced lecturers to help as well as mentors from your working environment to help you with your studies. It also offers a great opportunity to have a job in accountancy when your studies are over and potential for further study in CAI or CIMA. Finally, and something that I wish I had known before going to university is that it is fully funded so there is no student debt that comes along with it and you have the chance to earn whilst studying. I would highly recommend it.