At The Wise Group, we believe in creating opportunities for people to grow, develop, and build meaningful careers.
This week, with International Women’s Day on the horizon, we’re celebrating Rachel, whose journey from modern apprentice to accountant shows the power of support, confidence, and believing in your potential.
Finding a Different Path
In 2016, Rachel joined The Wise Group as a Modern Apprentice after deciding that college wasn’t the right path for her.
“I felt like college wasn’t the route for me,” she explains. “I wanted to work.”
Through Learn Direct, Rachel discovered an apprenticeship opportunity with The Wise Group. She began in a flexible role that involved supporting reception, covering annual leave and lunch breaks, and helping the team wherever needed. It was a chance to gain experience, learn how the organisation worked, and begin building a career.
What started as an entry point soon became the foundation for something much bigger.
Growing Through Opportunity
Rachel quickly discovered an interest in finance and began progressing through roles within the organisation.
In 2018, she moved into a Finance Officer position and later progressed to become a Finance Business Partner. Today, she works as an Accountant, continuing to build her expertise and contribute to the organisation’s work.
Along the way, The Wise Group supported Rachel to gain professional qualifications, including AAT Levels 2, 3 and now Level 4. She was given the time and support needed to study and complete exams while working.
“The Wise Group has always helped me gain my qualifications,” Rachel says. “They give me time off to study and take exams, which has made a huge difference.”
The Power of Support
For Rachel, one of the most rewarding parts of her role is working with colleagues across the organisation.
“My favourite thing about my job is working with people across The Wise Group,” she says. “I’ve worked my way up, and I wouldn’t be where I am without the team around me. The support, knowledge and experience people have shared with me have been so important.”
Throughout her journey, Rachel says she has always felt encouraged.
“Nobody has ever said ‘no’. Instead, it’s always been ‘what can we do to help you get where you want to be?’ There have been so many people who have supported me along the way. I’ve had all my milestones at the Wise Group. I’ve turned 21, gotten engaged, all my colleagues have always been so supportive”
Advice for Future Apprentices
Rachel’s experience shows how apprenticeships can open doors to meaningful careers. Her message to anyone considering an apprenticeship is simple: believe in yourself and take the first step.
“There’s nothing wrong with starting something and seeing where it takes you,” she says. “You’ll find your path and you’ll get there. Always have confidence in yourself and your ability to grow.”
“And if people believe in you, it makes such a difference.”
Celebrating Progress
Rachel’s journey highlights the impact apprenticeships can have – not just in building skills, but in building confidence and careers.
This Scottish Apprenticeship Week and International Women’s Day, we celebrate colleagues like Rachel who show what’s possible when talent is supported, opportunities are created, and people are encouraged to grow.
At The Wise Group, we’re proud to support apprenticeships and to help people build futures they can be proud of.
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