Catch-up with Abi Gumery – Last Years Freemen Guild ‘Apprentice of the Year’ Winner
Introduction to Abi Gumery
“Hi, I’m Abigail Gumery, last years winner of the City of Coventry Freeman’s Guild Apprentice of the Year Award. I’m currently just over halfway through my AAT apprenticeship with CWT and have thoroughly enjoyed it so far.”
“Undertaking this apprenticeship was a big change of career path from my previous job role. As I have completed an apprenticeship previously, I knew that choosing this path was the optimal choice for me to further my education. This opportunity not only allows me to deepen my knowledge through the course but also enables me to seamlessly integrate and apply this in my day-to-day job responsibilities—all while earning an income as I continue to learn!”
“I am thrilled to be awarded the Apprentice of the Year award. I have tried my hardest to achieve throughout this course by revising well for exams, attending all my college sessions, and keeping up to date with my portfolio and it just goes to show – hard work does pay off!”
Can you tell us about to your achievement for Freemen Guild Award Apprentice of the Year Award? (Can you tell us about your community participation along with doing your apprenticeship/Endeavor award)
“I believe my nomination for this award extends beyond my contributions at work and in college, but through my active involvement in my community. I make a conscious effort to maintain physical fitness by participating in Parkrun, a volunteer-organized 5km run held on Saturday mornings and have also began volunteering here too. I also have donated blood twice this year which has been prompted by finding out that my blood type is crucial to be held on ambulances. Within my workplace, I play an integral role in the employee engagement group, addressing concerns and advocating for improvements to create a more positive workplace environment.”
“For the endeavour award, I explained my participation in the Three Peaks Challenge in 2022. Climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon within a 24-hour span, I undertook this challenge with my friendship group in memory of my late best friend. Our collective efforts raised over £7.5k for charity.”
What did you purchase with your winnings?
“With my winnings, I treated myself to a little weekend getaway to London during Christmas time. Exploring Winter Wonderland and seeing all the Christmas lights felt like a well-deserved treat following the revision for the exam I took at the end of November. As for the remainder of the funds, they are waiting in my savings account for the perfect opportunity to spend!”
Could you share some insights into the mentorship or guidance you received that significantly helped you excel in your role?
“Throughout my apprenticeship, I’ve had lots of support from both my employers and training providers. My tutor, Anna, has always been on hand to answer questions I’ve had whether it be in person or over email. There are also various online resources available 24/7 which have been really helpful, especially in preparation for exams.”
What advice would you give to others that are considering doing an Accountancy apprenticeship?
“To make the most of the provided materials! Kaplan, The AAT Lifelong Portal as well as the tutors and teachers help. Theres no need to struggle on your own when there are so many resources available – take advantage of them!”
What are your future career goals, and how do you plan to build on this success in your career?
“At the moment, as I’m still in the very early stages of the whole accountancy world, I’m not entirely certain exactly where I plan to end up! I’m just excited to advance my education, and then explore what opportunities unfold along the way!”
Would you recommend Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training to others?
“Certainly, I would highly recommend CWT to others considering the apprentice route. The course has been thoroughly enjoyable, and the support from all the staff has been brilliant.”
If you are interested in doing an apprenticeship, then email enquiries@cw-chambertraining.co.uk or you can call 024 76231122 to find out more information.