Finance Apprentice Review

My role is an Assistant Accountant Apprentice at Cerulean, where I support the finance team with a range of day-to-day accounting tasks. On a typical day, this involves processing supplier invoices, checking VAT and approvals, and posting them accurately onto the system. I also work on accruals and journals, ensuring costs are recorded in the correct period, and assist with balance sheet reconciliations to make sure accounts are accurate and up to date.
I regularly use Excel to manage and analyse data, such as updating manufacturing cost reports, working with pivot tables, and helping prepare information for month-end reporting. Part of my role also involves handling service and assembly timesheets, where I input and categorise hours to support financial reporting.
Alongside this, I communicate with different departments across the business, such as purchasing and operations, to gather information and ensure financial processes run smoothly. Overall, my role involves a combination of data entry, analysis, and communication, with a strong focus on accuracy, organisation, and meeting deadlines, especially around month-end.

My programme has been well organised and structured overall. There is a clear balance between working and studying, which has helped me stay on track with both my job responsibilities and completing my AAT qualification.
The learning has been set out in a logical way, allowing me to build my knowledge step by step and apply what I’ve learnt directly into my role. I have also had regular check-ins and support when needed, which has helped me stay organised and manage my workload effectively.
Overall, the structure of the programme has made it easier to stay focused, meet deadlines, and progress through both the practical and academic sides of the apprenticeship.

I receive a good level of support from my employer. My team are always willing to help if I have any questions, and they take the time to explain tasks clearly so I can understand not just what to do, but why I’m doing it. This has really helped me build my confidence and improve my knowledge.
I have also been given opportunities to take on more responsibility over time, which shows trust in my ability and has supported my development. Regular communication with my manager has helped me stay on track and continue improving.
Overall, I feel well supported in my role, both in my day-to-day work and in progressing through my apprenticeship.

I receive a good level of support from my training provider while working towards my qualifications. They provide clear learning materials and guidance, which helps me understand the topics and stay on track with my studies.
I also have access to support whenever I need it, whether that’s asking questions, attending sessions, or getting feedback on my progress. This has been really helpful, especially when preparing for exams or working through more challenging areas.
Overall, the support from my training provider has helped me build my knowledge and confidence, and has played an important role in successfully working towards my qualification.

I feel that my qualification has helped me perform better in my role to a great extent. The knowledge I have gained through my studies has given me a much better understanding of the tasks I complete on a daily basis, such as accruals, journals, and financial reporting.
It has allowed me to understand the reasoning behind processes, rather than just following them, which has improved my accuracy and confidence in my work. I’ve also been able to apply what I’ve learnt directly into my role, particularly when using Excel and analysing financial data.
Overall, the qualification has supported both my practical skills and theoretical knowledge, making me more confident and effective in my role within the finance team.

Yes

Yes, I would recommend Coesia Cerulean
to a friend. It is a well-established company that operates as part of a global group, providing innovative industrial and testing solutions, which creates a professional and supportive working environment.
During my time there, I have gained valuable hands-on experience and developed a wide range of skills that have helped me grow both professionally and personally. The team is supportive, and there are good opportunities to learn and take on responsibility over time.
Overall, I believe it is a great place to start a career, especially for someone looking to gain practical experience and build strong foundations within a professional environment.