Kelsey joined Kreston Reeves as an ATT apprentice after finishing her A Levels in 2022.

Why did you choose this profession?

During my time at sixth form, I completely changed my mind about my future career direction and what I wanted to do. I took economics, computer sciences and maths and I’ve always been very numbers focused. Originally, I thought I would do something in cyber security but after looking into it I decided it wasn’t for me. After a huge amount of research, I found the accountancy and tax world and as I love numbers, I thought that would be perfect for me!

What made you choose the apprenticeship route?

I never really desired to go to university, but I would have gone if it was the only way to start my career. I wanted to combine learning and working and so an apprenticeship was the most perfect option for me.

What attracted you to the role and Kreston Reeves?

I spent a lot of time looking into different accountancy firms and looking at their websites and what they stand for. I applied to a few, including one of the largest firms, and was offered a role, but Kreston Reeves really stood out. They were interested in much more than just the services they provide, you could see they really care about employees as individuals. There was a clear difference. Even when I received offers, I was called by the person who had interviewed me at Kreston Reeves who offered me the position whereas the other firm just emailed me. Kreston Reeves made me feel much more of an individual.

What do you enjoy most about working there?

Everyone is like a big family. You are walking in every day to be with people you enjoy working with and they’re happy to help you and to teach you things. I’m not shy about asking questions and everyone is more than happy to help with what you are doing. Working and studying is hard but it’s a really nice learning environment and it makes it so much more enjoyable to spend every day with people that welcome you and treat you like an equal. The quality of your work because of this positive relationship with colleagues is I think much higher because of it.

There’s also a real community feeling about working there – the social events, the focus on staff well-being – which to me is really important. Since I joined, I’ve spoken to so many people across different departments and everyone is happy to help. It’s a really nice company to work in.

Would you recommend an apprenticeship with Kreston Reeves?

I would definitely recommend it. From the research I did I don’t think you could find a firm which is more perfectly equipped to help a student start a career. They give you everything you need to succeed. There is help with travel costs to college, books, pre-recorded lessons online etc and the people here are always so willing to help and support. When I talk to some of my friends doing an apprenticeship with other firms, they just haven’t been given half the resources that I have. I don’t think I could be in a better position to start my career.