Joanna Swain – Level 2 Accounts Assistant Apprentice

Joanna Swain: https://www.protrain-solutions.co.uk/courses/level-2-accounts-or-finance-assistant/

Joanna’s Journey

Joanna is now going through her final assessment for Accounting. She has passed all her exams for the Accounting Level 2 Certificate as well as her GCSE equivalent in Maths and English. She scored an amazing 96% in the Principles of Bookkeeping exam!

Not only does Joanna work, but she also runs a busy home and supports one of her children who has autism. Her husband also has to travel with his job. She has achieved all of this—and English is not even her first language.

We asked Joanna to share her thoughts and reflect on her experience throughout her Apprenticeship journey.

What Inspired You to Do the Course?

“Prior to applying myself in the accountancy field, I was for over two years a stay-at-home mum.

The moment all of my children were school age, I was finally in a position where I was able to focus on my own development and commit to a full-time role in a profession with good future prospects and ongoing training opportunities.

I looked to get back into the workforce with a focus on starting a new career. My previous job history has mostly been part-time work due to balancing childcare and work.

In my current role as an Apprentice Accountant at Woods Russell Limited, which is a private limited company, I have been given a chance to learn and practice accountancy competence.”

In your opinion, what are the most important things to focus on when working in accounting, based on what you’ve learned?

“Consistently upholding the highest standards of honesty and transparency in all accountancy work, approaching every task with a strong moral compass to ensure fair and ethical practices.

Following five fundamental principles of the Accountancy Code of Conduct:

• Integrity
• Objectivity
• Professional competence and due care
• Confidentiality

How Have You Applied the Knowledge You Gained from the Apprenticeship to Real-World Accounting Scenarios?

“As an Accounts Assistant apprentice, I have also been studying AAT Level 2 Qualifications. I have been given an opportunity to gain experience and knowledge to develop my accountancy skills.

Practicing double-entry bookkeeping and knowledge of accounting systems allows me to efficiently manage accounts payable and receivable, process invoices, and prepare financial reports.

Having a strong understanding of double-entry (revenue or capital expenditures) and financial statements (Profit and Loss, Balance Sheet, or Debtors and Creditors report) is essential in my job, as it involves recording and tracking individual business transactions.”

What Was the Most Valuable Feedback You Received During Your Apprenticeship, and How Did It Help You Grow?

“Receiving an appraisal form with comments that I am ‘an invaluable member of the team and greatly contribute to the success of Woods Russell.’ Witness testimony highlighted my dedication to accuracy and excellence in financial reporting, which significantly enhances the integrity and credibility of our accounting department. This built my confidence and inspired me to develop my skills and abilities.”

Can You Share an Example of a Challenging Accounting Task You Faced During Your Apprenticeship and How You Overcame It?

“I have been trusted by my line manager, Matt, to complete a few of the larger, more challenging, and complex Statutory Accounts and Tax returns. I believe that I have risen to this challenge and tackled some of the larger sets of accounts we produce with high accuracy, ensuring a ‘first-time correct’ approach.”

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