Leaving university for an apprenticeship was the best decision I ever made

Madeleine Andrews explains why she chose to embark on an apprenticeship with the North West Transaction Services team.

Why is an apprenticeship such an attractive option?

I had initially planned to gain a degree at university as I didn’t know there was another option. However, an apprenticeship enables me to continue my education, gain hands-on experience and earn a salary while training on the job. It also allows me to explore more specialised areas from the outset rather than the traditional route of joining a big accountancy firm as a graduate and working in audit. Earning a salary while studying, all without accumulating debt is a no-brainer.

You were studying mathematics at university, so why the change of heart?

With strong A-level grades, I initially went to Durham to study mathematics. I loved studying maths at A-level due to the systematic and practical aspects, however, the degree course was much more abstract, and I found myself losing the passion for maths that I had had since starting school. After two terms, I realised it wasn’t the right path for me.

After leaving university, I was unsure what my direction would be – I am someone who has always planned years in advance, and this certainly wasn’t part of the plan! My mum, who has extensive experience working with trainee lawyers, helped me realise that I could pursue a career with the same level of respect and recognition as accountancy without needing a university degree, which I had previously thought was essential. Her support and guidance have been invaluable to me throughout.

Why did you choose Transaction Services?

Before joining Dow Schofield Watts, I had very little understanding of what Transaction Services involved. However, after speaking with Cat Lang and Ed Brentnall, two of the Partners, I quickly realised how interesting their work is. They dive deep into the inner workings of a business — understanding how it operates, what drives its financial performance, and analysing every detail. This aligns perfectly with my personality; I’m naturally inquisitive and detail-oriented, so it’s a great match.

Additionally, it enables me to tap back into the systematic aspect of math that I loved so much at A-Level. It has given me the satisfaction I wasn’t getting at university.

What skills have you found most essential in your role as an apprentice?

When I started, my accounting knowledge was practically zero — I didn’t even know about debits and credits. This meant I faced a steep learning curve from day one. However, I got to grips with it quickly through study and support from the team, and I look forward to furthering my accounting knowledge through the study of the ACA.

Before joining, I was an Excel novice; however, I quickly realised that these skills are invaluable in this role, and I’ve become a bit of an Excel nerd! One of my AAT exams included Excel-based questions, and having that foundation of knowledge was beneficial.

Communication skills have also been crucial, as juggling multiple tasks simultaneously requires clear and effective communication within the team. I’ve found that communicating well helps ensure projects run smoothly.

One of the best parts of my apprenticeship experience has been the support from the team. You quickly learn that no one is an island, and being part of such a brilliant, supportive culture is great for both personal and professional growth. I also really appreciate how hard work is recognized. I have a strong work ethic, and when I deliver good work, it’s noticed that the team is genuinely invested in my success.

What advice would you give someone considering a similar apprenticeship or career path?

I wish I had known earlier that university isn’t the only option — even if it seems like everyone around you is going down that path. In sixth form, the focus was heavily on applying to university, and I understand why schools take pride in sending students there. However, there are other pathways, and I strongly encourage anyone to consider an apprenticeship as an alternative. My mum really helped me see this perspective.

I knew very little about accountancy before joining DSW – and certainly didn’t realise the whole range of areas that it covered or that it could offer such an engaging career path.

To put things in perspective, after just two terms at Durham, I already have £8,000 in student loan debt. If I had continued with my undergraduate studies and completed a master’s, I would have been looking at over £50,000 in debt. An apprenticeship offers a practical and financially savvy alternative.

Do you have any mentors or role models guiding you in your career journey?

I feel really fortunate to have the support of the Transaction Services team. The three Partners — Ed, Cat, and Ros — are exceptional role models, each bringing unique strengths to the table. I know I can turn to them for guidance in different areas, whether it’s strategic insight, technical expertise, or career advice.

Their mentorship has been invaluable; I’ve already learned so much from them. My confidence has grown tenfold, and that growth is a direct result of their encouragement and support. I’m genuinely grateful to be part of such an amazing team!

How would you describe the culture at DSW, and how does it align with your personal values?

I love the culture at DSW. It’s friendly, supportive, and far from the cold, impersonal environment I initially imagined the corporate world would be. The atmosphere here is incredibly personable and respectful, with a strong focus on people, which was a pleasant surprise. It aligns perfectly with my personal values.

I’ve also become involved in the Diversity & Inclusion Cornerstone, part of DSW’s ESG framework. This has given me a new passion for promoting alternative pathways into professional careers, like accounting apprenticeships, which offer a debt-free route. It feels great to be in an environment that supports these values and encourages initiatives I believe in.

Traditionally, candidates seeking a career in specialist accountancy fields such as transaction services or corporate finance would complete a degree and then work in the audit department within a big accountancy firm while completing an accountancy qualification. Only then would they look to specialise in their chosen field. By contrast, candidates choosing the apprenticeship route could start on their qualifications immediately. While much depends on individual circumstances, they could, in theory, qualify in a shorter timeframe.

What is the time commitment for ACA studies?
I dedicate at least six hours a week to off-the-job training, which includes study sessions, in-house training, or other relevant learning activities. My studies are mainly in Manchester, with some online courses. The timing of ACA modules depends on when I enroll, which enables the team and me to set the pace.

How often are you in the office?
I spend three days a week in the office and two days working from home. Study commitments vary depending on the course.

When do you expect to complete your ACA studies?
I started at Dow Schofield Watts in September 2022 and expect to complete the ACA by September 2027.

If you hadn’t left university, how long would the ACA have taken?
The ACA would still take three years since my degree wasn’t accountancy-related, so I would have completed it around the same time. Still, I will have the benefits of having gained more experience and greater accountancy knowledge – and without the student debt!

Madeleine’s Timeline

• June 2021 – left school with three A levels in Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Physics
• September 2021 – started at Durham University studying Mathematics
• April 2022 – left Durham university
• September 2022 – started at Dow Schofield Watts and commenced studies via AAT level 3 with Kaplan. AAT is for those starting their accounting journey and looking for practical skills
• July 2024 – Achieved Distinction in AAT
• September 2024 – commenced ICAEW ACA (with Kaplan) and due to qualify as a Chartered Accountant in 2027