How an Accounting Modern Apprenticeship Helped Jack Leil Build His Career in Finance
Jack Leil, Finance Assistant at GEG Capital, shares his experience completing a Diploma in Professional Accounting through the Modern Apprenticeship programme with HLA.
“Overall, the process was hugely rewarding, and has equipped me with role-specific expertise, which will help me to progress in the formative stages of my career.”
– Jack Leil, Finance Assistant
🎓 Taking the Alternative Route to Professional Growth
After gaining three years of experience working in an office, Jack realised that progressing in the finance and accountancy sector would require more than just work experience. Without formal education beyond secondary school, he began exploring alternative paths to university that would still allow him to gain the qualifications and skills necessary to succeed.
That’s when he discovered the Accounting Modern Apprenticeship offered by Highland Learning Academy (HLA).
“Accountancy and finance seem to be industries where progression is limited without the right qualifications,” Jack explains. “I wanted a path that let me work and study at the same time and this programme was perfect.”
📘 The Learning Experience and Support
Jack admits that balancing a full-time job, study commitments, and his social life wasn’t easy, but the results were worth it:
“The process was difficult at parts, but the support I received from HLA, my colleagues, and my managers was invaluable.”
He especially appreciated the varied teaching styles of his tutors:
“The support of all my tutors Kerry, Michelle, and Lynn was excellent. Each had a different approach, but all were equally impactful.”
💼 Career Impact and Skills Gained
Now that he’s completed his Diploma in Professional Accounting, Jack feels more focused and capable in his current role:
- Improved focus and study discipline
- Stronger technical understanding of his finance role
- Foundational management skills both financial and interpersonal
“I now have an elevated understanding of my job and the confidence that this qualification gives me a solid foundation for future growth,” says Jack.
🚀 Looking Ahead
Jack sees his apprenticeship as the beginning of a long and rewarding career:
“Having recently turned 25, I may be working for another 40–50 years. This Accounting Modern Apprenticeship has laid the foundation from which I can build the rest of my career.”
➡️ Interested in an Accounting Modern Apprenticeship?
Discover how a Modern Apprenticeship in Accounting can help you gain professional qualifications while earning and working in the real world.
