That means that, after she has finished her studies in Business, Finance and Criminology, the former Sandymoor School pupil will embark on a five-year apprenticeship earning a Level 7 ACA qualification – equivalent to a master’s degree – and the ability to progress into a managerial role.

 

During National Apprenticeship Week, we asked Lois about the application process.

 

“It was quite lengthy, which I wasn’t expecting at all. Each application has around a five-stage process depending on the company,” she said.

 

“It is very common to be unsuccessful in the first few positions you apply to, so don’t be disheartened!”

 

Lois said that students looking to secure a degree apprenticeship should first take work experience opportunities to help build skills and knowledge.

 

“Make sure you have a CV draft made before you return in September, a lot of the big companies open their recruitment window in September to October so you need to be prepared,” she said.

 

“Sign up to Linkedln where loads of apprenticeships are advertised, also use websites such as ‘not going to uni’ and ‘rate my apprenticeship’ to receive vacancy alerts.”

 

Priestley would like to thank Lois for her advice and wish her good luck at KPMG.