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Name: Maddi Cooper
Employer: Whitley Stimpson LTD
Apprenticeship level/title: Level 3 – Payroll Administrator
Job title: Payroll Administrator
1) Why did you choose to do an ICB Payroll Apprenticeship?
A: I got into the Payroll Apprenticeship as I did work experience with Whitley Stimpson Ltd, I started my experience in both accountancy and payroll, and was then offered an apprenticeship in payroll.
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I was already interested in that area because my mum works in payroll so I kind of grew up around it! I also enjoy that you get to learn about new legislation, furlough during coronavirus, payment, redundancies... I just love that there’s so much to learn!
2) What attracted you to a Bookkeeping career?
A: I’ve just always wanted to go into a career in finance! An apprenticeship in payroll has been a great starting point, it’s helped me develop my skills and given me the opportunity to learn valuable knowledge that will help progress my career.
3) How do you feel after winning your Luca for Apprentice of the Year?
A: I was so excited and happy that I won the award- I wasn’t expecting it at all! It shows how much hard work I put in; it’s really boosted my confidence.
4) How did you originally become a part of the Whitley Stimpson Ltd team?
A: After doing my summer work experience with Whitley Stimpson I joined in September of 2018, I then started my apprenticeship a month or two later so I could get used to the work environment before starting.
5) Has your apprenticeship helped you feel more confident in your bookkeeping abilities?
A: It definitely has, and not just with my payroll skills but with my confidence and communication skills! Before I never really spoke to anyone on the phone, now I’m able to communicate with clients and confidently talk about payroll to them.
6) 2020 was a difficult year for most, how were you able to effectively balance your work and studying? Do you have any tips for those working towards the same goal?
A: It was definitely difficult, especially with working from home. My study space also became my workspace, it was difficult to just sit in the same place and not move! My employer was supportive and allowed some flexibility, so whenever work was quiet, they would let me take a few hours in the day to study. I would advise taking breaks in between studying, maybe taking an hour to study and then having a twenty-minute break before starting up again and then moving away from your workspace during your break.
It’s also a great idea to keep talking to your mentor, take the time to talk to them about ways to study. My manager was helpful throughout as well. Some workdays would be too busy, so I didn’t mind using my evenings to study.
7) Tell us about your job at Whitley Stimpson LTD and what you enjoy most about it?
A: I love working in a team and having team discussions, everyone is so supportive at Whitley Stimpson, they’re always there to lend a helping hand. I enjoy the work we do and the clients we work with, we have an amazing variation of clients so we’re not always working with the same payroll every day; it’s always different. In general, there's always a great atmosphere at work and everyone’s so helpful. I love the team!
8) What advice would you give someone pursuing a Payroll Apprenticeship?
A: My advice would be to always communicate with your mentor frequently so that they can help you meet your targets. Try to research things instead of always asking a question, because by doing the research you learn more and can understand the information instead of just getting a straight answer, but still don’t be afraid to ask questions because everyone is willing to help. Absolutely study and be prepared for your exams and apply what you learn to your job. I always made lots of notes, I’m a visual learner so I enjoy making notes through posters and spider diagrams. Be proactive in your learning, research things, be willing to work independently, complete the coursework and study for your exams.
9) What's the most valuable experience you've gained from your Apprenticeship?
A: I’ve gained more independence and confidence by doing the apprenticeship, as well as the experience of working in a great team. This is my first job and it’s been amazing, everyone's been so helpful.
To learn more about hiring an ICB Apprentice click here.
