This Apprenticeship Week, we’re catching up with our Higher Level Apprentices past and present to hear about their time so far at Baker Tilly Mooney Moore, and the balance of learning while they work.
First up is Justin Burns from the Business Services department, who joined us last year on the Belfast Met Higher Level Apprenticeship Scheme. Studying with Accounting Technicians Ireland (ATI), Justin attends Belfast Met for face to face teaching every Thursday, and assists the Business Services Department the rest of the week, helping to prepare accounts and complete bank and supplier reconciliations.
Asked about his decision to pursue the apprenticeship route, Justin said it was the opportunity to gain experience while completing his qualifications that attracted him.
“I left school after Upper 6th where I studied Business as one of my A Levels. After a year of studying Business Management at Swansea University, I knew the course and university weren’t for me and decided I wasn’t going to carry on. Coming home, I did my research, spoke with friends and family, and eventually submitted an application for the apprenticeship and completed the selection process and interview for Baker Tilly Mooney Moore.”
Well into his first year, Justin is enjoying his course and the mixture of working with clients, preparing accounts, and studying at college for his ATT exams this year and next.
Business Services Partner Stephen McConnell discussed Justin’s contribution to the team: “Justin joined us with an ambitious, energetic attitude and has made great progress in his time with us so far. He has a strong sense of the needs of our clients from his time studying Business Management and university, and continues to apply his knowledge while studying for his exams at Belfast Met.”