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With over five decades’ experience serving a diverse range of clients in the South West, we possess an unbeatable depth of knowledge across a wide range of industry sectors.
Our specialist partners and teams can provide expert advice on everything from farming and agriculture, to military tax allowances. We’re here to help you make the most of your planning opportunities so that you can grow with confidence.
Simpkins Edwards is delighted to have been shortlisted for the medium business category at Radio Exe and Exeter College’s Devon’s Outstanding Apprentice Employer Awards.
We have worked with Exeter College for more than 20 years and currently have 10 apprentices studying there. A further 15 employees are undertaking additional study, 11 of these as apprenticeships with one recently completing ACCA.
Shortly before lockdown, we introduced Microsoft Teams, allowing our apprentices to continue receiving one to one training remotely, with the knowledge that they could contact their mentor at any time. Apprentices have two dedicated mentors, as well as support from partners, senior staff and former apprentices.
Each year, we aim to employ at least two apprentices. We have surpassed our goal this year, welcoming 8 apprentices, 15 since the beginning of lockdown. We are also advertising for a further three apprentices.
We continue to support our apprentices by ensuring study costs, day-release, additional college days and study leave are fully paid. We have not reduced our level of trainees even with the reduction in funding. Our apprentices also receive a competitive benefits package including private healthcare and pension. All apprentices receive two salary reviews each year (rather than the typical annual review) to reflect the rapid pace of their development.
We have been working very closely with the college, following changes to government funding in April. Due to our strong relationship with the College, and our passion to support apprenticeships, we were extremely privileged to have been invited to a round table meeting with the Prime Minister and the Apprenticeships and Skills Minister to discuss apprenticeships in March of this year.
Our investment into everyone proves invaluable, as the overwhelming majority choose to stay after they qualify. Nick Feeney joined our firm straight after his A-levels, completing his AAT with Exeter College and continuing to complete his ACA and is now a manager with the firm with over 9 years’ service.
To cast your vote, see here: /2ZPM303