Spotlight on Talent – Aiysha Lally

Studied : Higher Apprenticeship in Business and Professional Administration/Level 3 AAT course

Progression : Financial Accountant

Aiysha Lally’s apprenticeship has involved a number of firsts. 

She was the first of her friends to choose a job over university and the first apprentice at Tulip Ltd to study a Level 4 university-level qualification. Now, she is aiming to be the first former apprentice to study an ACCA (Association of Chartered Accountants) qualification through the company.

She is currently studying a Level 3 Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) course, which she will complete in August so that in three years’ time, she will be a fully qualified chartered accountant.

“I’ve always been motivated to gain as much experience as I possibly can,” she said. “That includes gaining qualifications to help me achieve my career ambitions.”

The 20-year-old’s work ethic impressed Tulip Ltd so much, they presented her with their Apprentice of the Year award.

“The award was a huge surprise,” Aiysha said. “It happened just after my performance review with my manager, so the timing was perfect.

It’s nice to be praised. It validates everything I’ve done and what I’m still working towards.”

Aiysha’s apprenticeship journey began in 2016 when she finished her A Levels and swapped her place on a teaching degree for her role as a finance apprentice.

“It took me a while to decide between the two,” she said. “I did some research and found myself drawn to accountancy. This really appealed to me. I saw the potential there to develop a career.”

Following her time in Tulip Ltd’s credit control, sales, financial accounts and commercial finance departments, Aiysha’s industry awareness helped her complete her Apprenticeship programme.

“There’s an evidence-based approach to the assignments you complete,” she explained. “You’re using eye-witness testimonials, descriptions and examples to demonstrate your understanding. The whole process of studying through work was really good.”

Going on to higher level study – a Level 4 in Business Administration – was also something that Tulip Ltd gave their full support to.

“Tulip used their Apprenticeship Levy funds to finance my qualification,” Aiysha added. “I was the first member of staff to have this opportunity. They have really supported my development. My HR manager even came along to my graduation awards ceremony at Walsall College.

“The whole graduation was a real highlight for me.”

So, as an award-wining apprentice and a university-level graduate, Aiysha’s career continues to be heading in the right direction.