Former Walsall Council apprentice shares success during National Apprenticeship Week

Can you share a little bit more about your apprenticeship? 

Charmaine: "I came to Walsall as a Finance Apprentice within the Resources directorate. This role involved overseeing the accounts for support services at the council including Finance, HR, Legal, and DaTS (the council’s IT department).

"I was also involved with other services within the directorate, and this gave me oversight of various transactional work that was being processed, to support Finance Business Partners, with monthly monitoring outturn positions."

What made you decide to apply for an apprenticeship instead of taking another route?

Charmaine: "I had part completed a Business Management – Accounting degree with the Open University. I found the final year difficult as it had a more strategic approach, and not being in the right line of work didn't support me at the time. 

"I came across an apprenticeship opportunity for an Accountancy Taxation Professional which was perfect for me as I still wanted to further my accounting professional qualification. This step has ultimately set me up for various future roles. It has also enabled me to progress into a Finance Business Partner position at Walsall Council."

What surprised you most when you started your apprenticeship at Walsall Council?

Charmaine: "At the time, stepping into an apprenticeship felt like a step back from the level of work that I’d been doing previously. However, my new council colleagues were supportive and helped me in achieving my professional qualifications. This has been a real domino effect – supporting me in taking the next step in my career.

"With the support of my colleagues and managers, my confidence has increased significantly, and I have more belief in my own capabilities and potential for the future."

What does a “typical day” at Walsall Council now look like for you? 

Charmaine: "I have now been a Finance Business Partner at Walsall Council for four years. During the last 12 months I completed my apprenticeship and became a member of the ACCA (Association for Certified Chartered Accountants).

"As I am now fully qualified, I have been able to apply for a Lead Accountant role within the Finance team in the hopes to further progress in my career. If I am a suitable candidate I will be interviewed during National Apprenticeship Week. This will hopefully be another positive step towards a role that I never anticipated would be an option for me when I first joined Walsall Council."

What advice would you give someone thinking about applying for an apprenticeship?

Charmaine: "It might seem daunting to begin with, but it could be the best next step you take in your career. An apprenticeship gives you the opportunity to gain valuable, practical experience. It can build skills for life that open doors for you in your future."

Walsall Council also funds an award-winning initiative called Walsall Works.

Find out more about Walsall Works on the website. 

For more information about NAW 2026 and local activities visit the gov.uk apprenticeships webpage or see the National Apprenticeship Week website.