As part of National Apprenticeship Week, we continue to spotlight the stories of Gamma employees who are embracing this year’s theme – skills for life – through structured learning and career development.
Today, Steve Baker-Wise, Early Careers Manager, sits down with Adam Cook (Finance – Level 4 Apprentice) and Claire Jackson (Finance Manager) to discuss how apprenticeships are shaping careers and fostering a culture of growth at Gamma.
Progression through learning
For Adam, the past year has been one of achievement and transition.
“Since we last spoke during National Apprenticeship Week 2024, I’ve completed my Level 3 apprenticeship and moved on to Level 4,” Adam shares. “I also changed roles within Gamma – still in finance and accounting, but now working in a different team, gaining new perspectives on the business.”
This step up has been both challenging and rewarding, allowing him to apply his growing expertise in a fresh environment.
The difference between Level 3 and Level 4
As Adam progresses, the depth of his studies increases. Steve prompts him to reflect on how Level 4 differs from Level 3.
“The jump is noticeable,” Adam explains. “It’s more in-depth, more advanced – there’s a greater focus on management accounting, reporting, and strategic decision-making. It’s a lot, but it’s good. I can see how it’s preparing me for what’s next.”
Claire, who supports Adam’s development, agrees. “His studies and work are so complementary. We recently structured tasks around his management accounting training, which has worked brilliantly. Instead of just learning theory, he’s actively applying what he studies.”
Supporting an apprentice in finance
From Claire’s perspective, managing an apprentice brings its own rewards.
“I took the traditional university route, doing my accounting exams while working. It was tough – studying outside work hours with no structured support,” she reflects. “Looking at the apprenticeship model, it makes so much sense. Having 20% of work time dedicated to study gives apprentices the space to develop their skills while gaining hands-on experience.”
Adam’s apprenticeship requires careful planning, but Claire sees this as a positive challenge rather than a hurdle.
“We align his workload around his studies so that nothing falls behind. It also means he’s learning in real time – when he studies management accounting, for example, he’s immediately applying those concepts to Gamma’s finance operations.”
This approach ensures continuous progress while keeping the team’s responsibilities balanced.
A teamwide impact
A common concern for businesses is whether apprenticeship commitments impact productivity. Claire, however, sees the opposite.
“Actually, I think it improves teamwork. We’re a structured department with month-end deadlines and essential tasks. Having Adam on an apprenticeship means we communicate more, plan more, and support each other better. It strengthens the team rather than disrupting it.”
Steve reinforces this, adding: “Apprenticeships enhance the whole team dynamic. Adam’s growth contributes to Gamma’s finance function, while his team builds skills in mentoring and collaboration.”
Looking to the future
With Level 4 well underway, Adam is already considering his next steps.
“Short term, I want to complete my Level 4 and then move on to Level 7 – the final step to becoming a chartered accountant,” he says. “That’s my main focus right now.”
Claire fully supports this ambition. “He’s more than capable of achieving that. It’s great to see how his confidence has grown. If he wants to continue studying, we’ll back him all the way.”
Skills for life
As the discussion draws to a close, Steve reflects on the bigger picture.
“The theme this year is skills for life, and Adam’s journey really embodies that. Whether he stays in finance long-term or pursues new opportunities, the skills he’s gaining – problem-solving, decision-making, critical thinking – will stay with him throughout his career.”
He adds with a smile: “Who knows? In a few years, I might be interviewing you again – but this time, as a manager supporting your own apprentice.”
Claire laughs, “Oh, he’s not leaving – we’ve told him that already!”
Adam’s apprenticeship is a launchpad for his future. And as Gamma continues to champion skill-building initiatives, stories like his will inspire the next wave of prospective apprentices.
If you’re interested in exploring Gamma apprenticeships, please speak with your line manager!