We interviewed our apprentice, James, who joined us in 2021, to get an idea of what it's like to learn with TAP and give any aspiring apprentices an idea of what they could be in for!
This is what he had to say:
What were your expectations when starting your apprenticeship with TAP?
When I first started at TAP, I wasn’t sure what to expect as I have never worked in a professional environment previously. I went down the apprentice route as I wanted to learn on the job and gain experience, so I’d say the expectations I had were mostly around the opportunity to learn about tax and expand my knowledge whilst working.
Were these expectations met?
I would say that my expectations were exceeded, as there is a great environment at TAP, and I felt welcomed from the moment I started. Everyone is always happy to help no matter what question is asked. On the work side of things, TAP is great as there is such a large variety of work to get involved in, so no two days are the same. This makes work life far more enjoyable as it means I am learning new things constantly.
Why did you want to start a career in tax?
Initially I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do when I left school, but I knew that university wasn’t for me. I was drawn towards tax because I thought it provided a great career path and looked like something I would enjoy doing.
What one piece of advice would you go back and tell your younger self?
Apprenticeships are not easy, but they are incredibly rewarding as I think that with the qualification you receive and the experience alongside, it is a great way to get into tax. It is a challenge to manage your studies alongside work, but it’s all about finding the right balance for you.
What does an average day look like for you?
It is very difficult to say what an average day is for me because every day is different. Some days I may have a variety of work and other days it may be one long task that will take me most of the day. I think this variation in work is great though.
What’s the TAP team like?
Within our team we have a mix of apprentices, managers and partners, and due to the size of our Leeds office you will most likely get the chance to work with all these individuals. You may also work with external clients once you become more settled into your role.
What qualification will you earn upon completing your apprenticeship?
You will earn a CFAB, which is a certificate in finance, accountancy, and business. This is a level 4 qualification and is a great stepping-stone onto professional accountancy exams.
How long does it take to complete your qualification?
I would say that the qualification normally takes 14/15 months, but I think that is dependant on the speed that you complete the exams at.
In what ways are your studies supported?
TAP are very supportive with my studies. I receive study days before every exam which allows me to focus solely on my revision and not have to worry about work for those crucial days before my exam. I can also speak to people in the office if I am struggling with something as the other apprentices have previously done those exams so are always happy to help.
What happens after you earn the CFAB?
After I have completed the CFAB I will have the opportunity to go on to complete the ACA qualification which would mean that I would become an ICAEW charted accountant.
For more information on TAP apprenticeships, email Sophie at Sophie.a.richards@taxadvisorypartnership.com
