FOUR staff members at a Bournemouth accountancy firm have graduated from their apprenticeship scheme and are now fully fledged accountants. 

James Woodward, Alice McNab, John Olejnik and Edward Holly have all passed their ACA exams having spent the past four years training at Saffery in Bournemouth. 

Staff partner Casidhe Baleri said the firm is “incredibly proud” of the four, adding: “They’ve worked hard and balanced working life well with studying and have proved themselves to be valuable members of our team.  

“Our 2025 trainee and intern programmes go live for applications on 17 September 2024, with two application windows for most roles: September 17 to December 31, 2024 and February 1 to June 28, 2025 

“It’s a brilliant opportunity to obtain full financial support towards gaining a professional qualification, with multiple learning opportunities through challenging, hands-on work, across a diverse and interesting client portfolio – from private wealth to corporate businesses.” 

Graduate James, 25, said: “Choosing to pursue further studies after earning my first-class master’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Bath was a tough decision, but following my passion has been incredibly rewarding. 

“I am deeply grateful to Saffery for their supportive environment, which has made my journey fulfilling and enjoyable.” 

Alice McNab joined as a sixth form school leaver from The Blandford School said every effort “was worth it”. 

The 23-year-old added: “Having lacked self-belief throughout my entire education, I can now truly say that I can do anything I set my mind to. 

“It’s a huge achievement to be qualified, with all first-time passes, and no university debt.” 

Senior-audit John Olejnik, 28, a University of Nottingham graduate in English and German, said: “I’m overjoyed to have completed my training contract and really grateful for the support of the Saffery partners and wider audit team during my studies. I’m now looking forward to continuing my career at Saffery.”  

Edward Holly, 26, and a University of Southampton graduate said: “I feel incredibly relieved to have now passed all my exams and I feel really proud to have achieved my ACA qualification, it has certainly made all the late nights and busy weekends worth it in the end.”