A Collaborative Approach to Accountancy with MHA Moore and Smalley
Recognising the need to develop the next generation of accounting professionals, MHA Moore and Smalley, a prominent accountancy firm with offices in with offices in Preston, Manchester, Liverpool, Lancaster, Kendal, Blackpool and Nottingham, has taken a proactive step and joined forces with Preston College to establish a collaborative approach and train their upcoming accountants through apprenticeships. Over the years, MHA Moore and Smalley have used Preston College to train the future workforce of accountants, and this September recruited their biggest cohort yet, with 20 apprentices joining the firm to study AAT Accountancy Level 3 and Level 4. Linzi Monks, Head of Apprenticeships and Employer Engagement at Preston College says: “The collaboration between MHA Moore and Smalley, and the College comes from a shared commitment to address the skills gap in the accountancy sector. By utilising the expertise of our industry professionals and the educational resources at Preston College, the partnership aims to provide aspiring accountants with a comprehensive and practical learning experience which will see them qualify and become accounting professionals.” Apprenticeships provide a valuable bridge between academic knowledge and real-life working. MHA Moore and Smalley, with their wealth of experience in the field, understand the importance of practical skills in accountancy. Through this partnership, apprentices are exposed to the day-to-day operations of a leading accountancy firm, whilst gaining hands-on experience to complement their academic studies.
The collaboration has led to the development of structured learning programmes that blend classroom education with on-the-job training. Apprentices at MHA Moore and Smalley benefit from curriculum design, to cover a wide range of accounting principles, tax regulations, and auditing procedure. This holistic approach ensures that apprentices are well-rounded professionals, equipped with both technical expertise and practical skills. Nicola Roberts, early careers lead at MHA Moore and Smalley says: “One of the key strengths of this collaboration is the mentorship provided by our experienced professionals. Apprentices have the opportunity to work closely with experienced accountants in our offices who guide them through real-life scenarios, share insights gained from their career, and provide valuable feedback. This mentorship not only enhances technical skills, but also demonstrates a sense of professionalism and ethics.” In addition to technical skills, the collaboration emphasises the importance of networking and building professional relationships. Apprentices are encouraged to attend industry events, conferences and workshops - providing them with exposure to the wider financial world. This exposure not only broadens their perspective, but also opens doors to potential career opportunities. Nicola adds: “The collaborative effort between MHA Moore and Smalley and Preston College represents a forward-thinking approach to addressing the evolving needs of the accountancy profession. As we combine academic objectives with practical experience, the outcome ensures that future accountants are well equipped when they move into the world of finance and into their future careers.”
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