Higher Level Finance Apprentice
Location: Devonport, Plymouth, England
Sector/Business unit: Nuclear
My apprenticeship, why I chose it, and why I chose Babcock:
I am currently in the second year of my Higher-Level Finance Apprenticeship, working towards my AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) qualification. My current placement is within the Nuclear Financial Planning and Analysis team at Devonport Royal Dockyard, where I perform detailed reconciliations and oversee the invoicing process for different areas of the organisation. Providing detailed analysis helps contribute to informed business decisions.
My passion for numbers, data, and problem solving – developed while studying Mathematics and Economics at A-Level – is what first drew me to a career in finance. Those subjects gave me a strong analytical foundation and sparked my interest in how financial decisions shape organisations and industries.
What attracted me to Babcock was the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a large, complex organisation that plays a vital role in national security. The apprenticeship offers the perfect balance between practical workplace experience and academic development. With four days working both on-site and at home, and one dedicated study day each week, I can apply what I learn in real time while progressing toward an internationally recognised qualification. This approach not only builds my professional skills but also allows me to achieve my goals without the financial burden of student debt. Being part of a team that contributes to something so important is incredibly rewarding, and I am proud to be pursuing a career in finance with Babcock.
My favourite part of the programme:
My favourite part of the programme is the chance to improve business processes using modern technology, particularly exploring how AI can be used to increase efficiency and accuracy across the finance function. In my role, developing my knowledge of Excel has been especially valuable when rewriting processes to streamline workflows with automated solutions.
As technology continues to evolve, I am motivated to identify improvements that reduce manual effort and enhance the quality of output. I believe innovation in finance is essential to the company’s future growth and success, so being able to contribute to that through my day-to-day tasks is a highlight of the programme.
My work/life balance:
Babcock provides me with a strong work–life balance. Flexible working arrangements allow me to manage my time effectively and structure my weekly schedule around key dates and deadlines.
The hybrid nature of the role – working both from home and in the office – gives me the flexibility to balance personal commitments without compromising my workload.
My development:
As a second-year apprentice in the Central Finance Team, I’ve taken on responsibility for handing over processes and training a new starter. This has been a key part of my development, teaching me how to explain complex tasks clearly while providing context about each business unit and their operations – a challenge given the diversity and scale of Babcock’s work.
This experience has boosted my confidence and strengthened my communication skills, both of which are pivotal to my growth through the programme and will remain valuable throughout my career.
