A group of Year 9 and 10 GCA students recently visited local accountancy firm, Towers & Gornall, for an invaluable employer visit that offered a tangible glimpse into the world of finance.
The highlight of the visit was an inspiring talk from Chloe Bardsley, an ex-GCA student who has climbed the ranks to become a Director at Towers & Gornall. Chloe's journey served as a powerful testament to the potential career paths available to our students.
During her presentation, Chloe provided a comprehensive overview of the key role of an accountant, demystifying the profession and highlighting its importance across various industries. She delved into the qualifications and career pathways available, offering practical advice on how to pursue a career in accountancy, whether through university, apprenticeships, or other routes. Students also learned about the diverse different areas of work within accountancy, from auditing and tax to Government accounting and financial planning.
One of the most engaging parts of Chloe's talk was the practical information about VAT and Tax. Students were able to put their minds to work, participating in interactive activities to calculate various scenarios, bringing theoretical knowledge to life. This hands-on experience offered a fantastic opportunity to apply mathematical skills in a real-world context.
Beyond the insightful talk, students were treated to a tour of the premises, allowing them to see a professional working environment firsthand. The visit culminated in an exciting and competitive activity: students were split into teams and given an accountancy-related task. The challenge? To be the first one to open the safe in the quickest time! This engaging task encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and a bit of healthy competition, making for a memorable end to the visit.
Events like these are crucial in helping our students make informed decisions about their future careers. We extend a huge thank you to Chloe and the entire team at Towers & Gornall for their time and for providing such a valuable and engaging experience for our GCA students.