Before Sophie started working at the Council she was studying full time for her A-Levels at Sussex Downs College in Lewes. She studied broad subjects because she wasn't sure which career path to take.
It was a big decision not to go to University, but Sophie couldn't decide what to study after her A-Levels. She started to look for jobs in finance and accounting as she enjoyed maths and it was one of her strongest subjects.
Studying and working
“I knew I wanted to carry on working towards a higher qualification but I also wanted to gain valuable work experience which would help prepare me for my future career. I came across the National Apprenticeship website on the Internet and found an advert for a finance apprentice at the Council.”
Sophie applied for the post and got an interview. She says “It was my first ‘proper' interview so I was very nervous, but the two people that interviewed me made me feel relaxed and comfortable. A week later, I received a phone call to say that I had got the job!”
Sophie wasn't sure what to expect when she started the job, but everyone was very supportive. She goes to College one day a week to study for a Diploma in Accounting (AAT) and she has regular meetings with her College tutor and her manager to discuss her progress.
Working in a large organisation
“I've spent time working in different teams in the finance department, which has given me a good knowledge of the finance function as a whole. It's a very varied role and I have learned far more than I ever imagined I would.
“Working at the Council has given me valuable experience of working in a large organisation, meeting and working with many different people.”
The apprenticeship has led to Sophie being offered a three-month secondment working in the School's team. She comments “The apprenticeship has been a brilliant option for me, and I hope to go on to study for an accountancy degree in the future.”
East Sussex County Council