The value of apprenticeships…

With their blend of academia and real-life experience, apprenticeships have emerged as an equally prestigious and practical alternative to university degrees. In the UK alone, in the 2023/24 academic year, approximately 389,600 apprenticeshipsstarted in England, with 31.5% (around 106,000) undertaken by individuals under the age of 19. Apprenticeships are increasingly becoming the popular choice for those looking to enter the workforce.

For accounting, programmes like the Level 7 Accountancy Apprenticeship offer trainees the chance to earn while they learn, gain hands-on experience, and achieve qualifications like the ACA, ACCA, or CTA.

A changing accountancy landscape

Like in many sectors, today’s accountancy profession is being reshaped by digital transformation. Artificial intelligence and the growing importance of sustainability show that, for today’s aspiring accountants, adaptability is now as important as technical competence. Trainees today must be equipped with the skills to meet the demands of our changing industry.

So what does this mean for us at Shaw Gibbs?

A modern path to success

From cloud-based accounting systems to robotic process automation (RPA), technology is streamlining workflows and enabling accountants to focus on strategic tasks. Through apprenticeships, our trainees work with digital tools like Xero and QuickBooks, gaining proficiency in managing automated systems and interpreting data analytics. This practical experience ensures they are ready for our tech-heavy future.

Leveraging AI

With the advent of AI, this tech-heavy future is right at our doorstep. Today, AI is reshaping accounting by driving predictive insights, fraud detection, and real-time reporting. While AI can take over repetitive tasks, professionals are still a crucial part of the process. They are needed to interpret insights and apply them.

At Shaw Gibbs, we are actively exploring how AI can best support efficiencies within our operations. Our prevailing ethos to provide an expert and innovative service – means that we’re not willing to be left behind. From streamlining internal processes to enhancing client services, we are harnessing AI to drive smarter decision-making and optimise workflows, ensuring greater value for our clients.

What does this mean for them and us?

Alongside learning at the highest industry standard and becoming familiar with the latest technology, our apprentices now learn to evaluate AI-generated data and provide actionable advice, combining human expertise with technological know-how. We are equipping our workforce for the future, not just today.

For us, our apprentices bring fresh perspectives and energy into our organisation, learn within our culture and align with our strategic goals. In 2024, our apprenticeship programme grew by 250% and we continue to be committed to the growth of this part of our business.

In an era defined by transformation, apprenticeships are not just an option, they’re a necessity.

Let’s continue the conversation…

If you’re an apprentice, employer, or advocate for skills development in the accounting profession, I’d love to hear your thoughts. How do you see apprenticeships shaping the future of accountancy?