#NAW2023
Former Tiverton High School pupil, Fred Davey, studied Business, Politics and Photography at Richard Huish College and progressed in 2022 to become a Trainee Tax Consultant at Old Mill Accountants & Financial Planners.
He always wanted to complete A Levels but felt an Apprenticeship was a better route than university for his next steps.
His time at Huish
Fred shared “Although I lived closer to other colleges, Huish was the only college which I felt had a brilliant student-led culture, strived for excellence within its pupils, and put them at the centre of the college rather than treating them as a number.
“The campus was brilliant, and the openness of buildings and outdoor areas were excellent as you could go and socialise in the canteen or café, or if you wanted to get some revision done you could head to the Learning Centre where there are a huge amount of computers”.
Whilst at College Fred participated in Debating Club, ran the Investment and Finances Club, and launched a successful Wedding & Events photography business, Fred Davey Photography, booking multiple events including lead photographer at the Cardiff marathon.
His current career
Fred is now working towards a Level 7 Chartered Tax Advisor (CTA) qualification through an Apprenticeship as well as doing a Level 4 Association of Taxation Technicians (ATT) qualification to become more qualified in the field of tax.
His job role includes working with individuals, businesses, and the Government to provide effective tax advice and calculations.
Fred shared “This includes anything from helping a company claim tax relief on Research and Development projects, which are innovating industry standards, to organising and submitting individuals’ personal tax returns, such as self-employed people from YouTubers to plumbers, or even lottery winners!
“The role is very diverse with lots of options to specialise in certain fields of tax, however, I find myself especially fond of personal tax as there is lots of client contact and communication”.
Applying for the role
“I saw the Apprenticeship advertised on Indeed and decided to send my CV off with a cover letter through the company’s website. I was then invited to an online assessment centre to complete a few short online tests for mathematical ability, problem-solving capability, and English language literacy.
I later got a call from someone in HR who responded to any questions I had and told me more about the Apprenticeship which was really comforting. She told me that I had secured an online interview for the job.
The interview itself started with typical questions such as ‘why should we hire you’ and ‘why are you interested in this role?’, but beyond that it was a very informal discussion about my interests, hobbies, and passions in life!
Choosing an Apprenticeship
Answering why he chose an Apprenticeship Fred commented “I knew I didn’t want to go to university however I also didn’t want to stop learning so an Apprenticeship was the perfect choice for me.
“Although University is widely encouraged through other alternatives such as an Apprenticeship, often you will get the same level of qualification whilst being paid a fair salary. You also gain experience in the field which can be used to demonstrate the theory you learn in your qualification. Employers greatly value experience and qualifications so if you have both it’s a win, win!
“Learning whilst earning is really good as you can do amazing things outside of work like holidays, meeting friends more regularly and also just saving towards the future like a house deposit or new car”.
Advice to others
To younger pupils, Fred advises “Understand what you love and enjoy then follow a path which captivates these in your post Year 11 studies, consider all the different options which you have in front of you.
“Although what was discussed with the Careers & Progression team didn’t end up being what I decided on I still think it was great to talk to someone about the future! The future is a very daunting thing for anyone so having a professional team to talk to at Huish was amazing”.
If you would like advice on how to approach your next steps following Huish and how to maximise your employability the Progression and Careers team can support you – for more information visit
Careers & Progression.