In his thirteenth blog, Ethan continues to write about experiences from his Business Officer Apprenticeship at Leeds East Academy:
Since my arrival at Leeds East Academy I have been pleasantly surprised with the administration team and the way they regularly help one another with their roles. To note a few personal experiences: I have supported our human resources administrator in filing, I have covered reception, and most recently helped during interviews by accompanying interview candidates on tours of the building. It is evident our team along with each department at Leeds East Academy make a significant effort to support one another in our efforts to provide excellent education to our students.
"Smiling and being happy at work is important because positivity breeds productivity."
Last week I had the opportunity to sit in a Health and Safety Committee meeting. When reflecting on this opportunity, I realised how much I learnt from that hour of taking notes. Following the meeting, two colleagues spoke to me and we discussed how the knowledge I am gaining is transferrable across any sector. Understanding Health and Safety allows people working in Finance, such as myself, to be more aware of the wider organisation and the operations therein.
At college, we began studying a new topic this week titled ‘Working Effectively in Finance’. Topics covered in this unit include; the functions of finance; legislation surrounding finance; and the organisation of the business. The governing body, AAT, deems this topic important enough to be on their exam syllabus and I have found that the information in this topic is relevant for any aspiring accountant working in any business sector.
Although my college studies are in accounting and finance, I often find myself at work being asked to help with administration tasks. I am more than happy to help, and I’ve noticed the difference it makes working in a team that trusts one another. Going to work is sometimes daunting; I often get apprehensive at the uncertainty of the day’s tasks. However, I always smile at work because of the great people I work with. Smiling and being happy at work is important because positivity breeds productivity.
