Life as a Finance Apprentice – Bethan’s Story

Hi my name is Bethan, and I’m writing this blog to share my experience of the Finance apprenticeship programme.

After three months at university, I quickly realised that it wasn’t for me. At the time leaving seemed such a scary prospect, but if you are in the same position, please be assured there are many amazing alternative opportunities out there. I searched online for apprenticeships in the area and Boots stood out straight away. With a wide selection of functions, high-level and relevant qualifications, great career progression opportunities and good pay, I knew this was the direction for me and had to apply.

I began my apprenticeship with a two month store placement. It was great to be out in store during the festive period, getting to know what our customers want and what challenges the store colleagues face daily.

I have had 3 roles within Finance since I joined Boots 2.5 years ago. These have included working as a Finance Analyst, involving tasks such as setting stores targets, running reports for new products and producing performance packs that form the basis of making important decisions across the business. I now work as an Assistant Finance Manager in Financial Accounting where I am part of a team producing the Boots UK accounts each month. My job here is to look after the valuation for stock in our stores – a big responsibility but very rewarding.

Boots are great at supporting with studies and allow apprentices half a day per week to work towards completing our qualification. This can be a taught lesson or independent working time. There is even a building on site especially for the apprentices to work in with computers, books, and anything else we might need.

Boots really is a great place to work, I’ve been involved in many things outside my day job too. From organising charity events, to delivering careers events at schools, there are always things going on that you can get involved in. We have regular team building days, team lunches and even celebrity visits when we launch new products and brands – including Ashley Roberts and Alesha Dixon which was exciting! There are also opportunities to improve your own skills such as leadership courses, Microsoft Excel courses and many more.

Since completing the Finance apprenticeship last year, I have gained a place on the Future Leaders + apprenticeship which is a further 2 years. This is a degree at Nottingham Trent University; I attend Uni each month – sponsored by Boots – and work on projects and assignments that are beneficial to my own development as well as the business as a whole. This is just one of the many opportunities available after completion of the apprenticeship.

Whichever function you are interested in, I definitely recommend applying. I’m glad I did – as long as you work hard and are passionate about the business and your own development, you will love it! Leaving university was a big decision, but it’s the best thing I did for me personally as I’ve already secured a career I love.

To discover more about our apprenticeship programmes click here