ACCA Trainee Review
at Westcotts
Degree Apprenticeship
Accounting
Plymouth
Review Submitted: May 2025
Overall Rating
5 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
5/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
Working predominantly in the business services department, my day to day role involves preparing year end accounts, VAT returns and management information. We het the opportunity to work with businesses in different industries ranging from small owner managed businesses to large groups of companies.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
The apprenticeship programme offers a good balance between practical work experience and academic learning. Although balancing work and study can be challenging at times, I find it rewarding and motivating because I can see clear progress in my development.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
In the early days of the apprenticeship, one of the main skills I gained was the use of accounting software such as Sage, Xero & QuickBooks. Now towards the end of the apprenticeship, I feel that I've improved my time management and organisation through juggling study requirements with real world deadlines.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
There is a clear pathway for progression, with each stage of learning and responsibility building on the last. The combination of on-the-job training and study time is balanced well, and I know what’s expected of me both in terms of work performance and exam preparation. Regular check-ins with my manager and training provider help me stay on track.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I’ve been given time during work hours to complete apprenticeship tasks, which shows that my development is a priority. There are regular catch-ups to review my progress, and I feel encouraged to ask for help when needed. I’ve also had opportunities to work on complicated engagements, which has meant that a colleague has been teaching me new topics before my training provider.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
The ACCA qualification is vital to anyone looking for a long term career in finance. It provides a solid understanding of accounting principles, audit and tax topics that are regularly used in my role.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
At Westcotts, there are a range of extra-curricular activities such as sports days, charity fundraising activities and Christmas parties. We also get the opportunity to represent the firm at a range of networking events, building relationships with the wider business community.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Westcotts to a friend?
Yes
Why?
At Westcotts there is a supportive and professional environment where you can develop your skills and career. With a clear career path from the outset, you are trusted with real responsibility early on, knowing that help if always available should you need it.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Westcotts?
My main tip would be to be genuinely yourself. Do some research about the firms values and services, be willing to learn and to be part of a team.
