Image: Councillor Rupert Simmons, Lead Member for Economy, East Sussex County Council presents certificate to Maureen Courty
Accounting apprentice is nominated for Best Progression award
Maureen Courty, Purchase Ledger Clerk, succeeded in gaining The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) qualification, supported by Focus SB sponsorship. Maureen also had to complete an English course alongside this at the beginning. Nominated by her tutor at East Sussex College for 'Best Progression' award in 2019, Maureen was presented with a certificate by Councillor Rupert Simmons, at the East Sussex Apprenticeship Awards ceremony for her Professional Accounting Taxation Certificate Level 4 qualification.
Maureen tells us: "I first showed interest in accounting when I was an assistant manager for a chain restaurant in London. I used to check the profit or loss report every month and investigate any variances with the previous month and try to find ways of cutting down expenses to maximise profit for the branch. I eventually decided to start the accounting course and knew that if I could complete it, it would be a great personal achievement and it would also mean a better employment prospect, better wages and therefore a better life for my children and I.
"To be nominated means that my hard work has paid off. The best feeling is that someone has recognised it and noticed my hard work, perseverance, commitment and success in exams. It's a very rewarding feeling to know that my success and dedication have attracted the attention of someone and this person thinks I should win the award.
"Being nominated for this award reflects how dedicated and hard working Focus SB's employees are. It will make the company stand out and attract more apprentices. This nomination sends a message out to all apprentices, to always push yourself as it pays off.
“It's a great benefit for my career because it distinguishes me from others should I want to apply for a new job. Indeed, not many people have been nominated for an award in their life and this is an experience I will always remember and be proud of."
Colleague Andrew Lanworn, Finance Manager and Company Secretary at Focus SB, St Leonards on Sea comments: "When Maureen joined us in July 2016 she had already completed level 2 of the AAT qualification at East Sussex College, but she had no accounts work experience.
"We employed her with the aim of fulfilling the Purchase ledger role but also developing her overall accounts knowledge to cover and grow into different aspects of accounts. So we sponsored her to go to Sussex Downs college to complete the AAT qualification which she has now gained and she is the only person in the company besides myself and who is a qualified accountant. We are all delighted with the progress she has made and she is already an important member of the team and I see her role growing in the coming years."
