Dundee accountants help pupils prepare for world of work

Dundee-based EQ Chartered Accountants has been commended for its work with a Dundee secondary school, as part of a national drive to bring businesses and education closer together.

EQ and Harris Academy were presented with Partnership Certificates by Dundee and Angus Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) yesterday.

The certificates recognise the collaborative work which EQ and the school are doing to help arm existing school pupils with the skills and experiences required to move from education into employment.

A Scottish Government initiative, DYW works with industry to provide high quality activities, vocational qualifications and apprenticeships to school pupils, while dispelling some of the myths and stereotypes surrounding certain industries and careers.

Earlier this year, EQ held a fact-finding session on accountancy for Harris pupils, exploring the career pathways involved. The firm hopes to return later this year to develop this partnership.

EQ also supports and sponsors a variety of additional, local educational initiatives and events, from prize-giving ceremonies and ‘Maths Week’ events, to inviting pupils to attend sector-specific events. Work experience is also a positive stepping stone and, each year, EQ offers work experience slots for those in school with a genuine interest in accountancy.

Jenny Law, HR and training manager, said: “We are always looking to invest in new talent and, as with many industries, that talent pool extends beyond university graduates. With that in mind, it’s important for employers to look at the bigger picture, and to take a step back and engage with schools pupils before they go down a particular career path, not just to consider them when they leave university.

“In our case, it’s not just about highlighting the different routes into accountancy but identifying some of the bright sparks who have a strong chance of thriving and progressing within the firm. We are proud to be working alongside Harris Academy, and other schools, to make a positive impact on the development of young people and would encourage other local employers to get involved in this ‘win-win’ initiative.”

Presenting certificates to both EQ and Harris Academy, Rachel McEwen of Dundee and Angus DYW said: “It’s always a pleasure to recognise the incredible work that local businesses undertake to engage local young people and help them develop and become more informed about and prepared for the world of work, making them better candidates for future vacancies. EQ in particular have done a lot of work around dispelling myths and promoting alternative pathways. This work is invaluable and has an incredible impact on those involved. As a well-known and respected company, with a strong local presence, this makes EQ’s engagement even more beneficial. We will continue working with EQ and Harris Academy to help them take their partnership from strength to strength with as much impact as possible and positive outcomes for all involved.”

Gerry Harkins, principal teacher in the Mathematics Department of Harris Academy, added: “The days of education being primarily about academic results are long gone – schools also have a role to play in ensuring that pupils are leaving school ‘work ready’. By working in partnership with local employers, young people can discover the diverse career paths into different sectors and the people skills, as well as the qualifications, required for the world of work. We are therefore delighted to be working alongside EQ and look forward to developing our relationship with them and other employers.”