Apprenticeships are often seen as the first step. A foot in the door at the beginning of a career. A way in, rather than the way forward. But at TC Group, they are something much more intentional. Apprenticeships are championed as a long-term investment in developing people and providing a launchpad for future leaders.
Ten years ago, the business launched its very first Apprentice Academy. The ambition wasn’t to simply attract emerging talent, but to build meaningful career pathways from within. Pathways determined by the individual, rather than imposed through a top‑down model.
A decade on, that vision is being realised across TC’s offices, with one standout example being Northampton-based Senior Manager, Matt Pickard. A member of the academy’s inaugural cohort, Matt’s now successfully progressing along a clearly defined pathway towards becoming a director.
His personal experience demonstrates what is possible when apprenticeships are aligned with progression, purpose and sustained support. Rather than being limited to a qualification or short-term placement, his career has been shaped by structured development, meaningful responsibility and consistent mentorship from senior colleagues, all underpinned by a culture that genuinely believes in growing its own talent.
Beyond the basics of the traditional apprenticeship
From the outset, TC set out to do things differently. The Apprentice Academy wasn’t designed as a carbon copy of existing schemes, but as a future-focused commitment in the business.
Emma Jones, Partner and Head of Audit, played a central role in shaping that original vision. She saw apprenticeships as a way of building a pipeline of confident, capable professionals who understand the organisation from the ground up – its values, clients and people.
Matt’s own journey began far from any corporate boardroom, and like many young people, his early career ambitions were broad.
Having played for Milton Keynes Dons and Luton Town, becoming a professional footballer was always Matt’s dream but while football captured his imagination, he remained realistic about his future. After completing his GCSEs, he stayed on to study A‑levels in Business Studies, IT and Finance. Although he applied to university and received an unconditional offer, an apprenticeship in professional services and accountancy ultimately felt like the right path.
“I knew I wanted to become an accountant,” said Matt, “and the apprenticeship route just made sense. You still needed to complete your professional exams, but you gained real work experience, earned a salary, and avoided student debt at the same time.”
Matt joined the business in August 2016 as an Audit Assistant, becoming the first intake of the Apprentice Academy when the firm was trading as Haines Watts. Early exposure set the tone from day one. After induction, he spent time in the Kettering office learning the fundamentals of accounts preparation before heading out on his first audit site visit.
Over the years, Matt’s progression has mirrored the principles on which the academy was built. From his initial role, he progressed to Audit Executive in 2019, Audit Senior in 2020, Assistant Manager in 2022, Audit Manager in 2023 and Audit Senior Manager in January 2025.
Each step brought increased responsibility, from managing elements of audits to leading teams, overseeing portfolios and, ultimately, becoming the main point of contact for complex client groups.
“The Assistant Manager role felt like the biggest step up,” he said. “I was managing my own portfolio, leading complex audits, line‑managing others and studying at the same time. It really pushed me.”
Alongside technical development, Matt built strong client relationships, something he credits with shaping his confidence. Representing the business at networking events, liaising with decision‑makers, and collaborating across TC’s service lines broadened his understanding of what excellent client service looks like in practice.
“Along the way, I’ve navigated both expected and unexpected challenges that come with growth. I’ve learnt from mistakes rather than letting them hold me back, adapted to rising client expectations and developed confidence in my own ability. I didn’t do it alone though. Mentorship from Stephen Watts, Ben Young and Emma Jones made a real difference. Having a clear development pathway meant progression felt achievable, not overwhelming.”
Today, Matt is progressing along the pathway to director – a structured route that provides clarity for both the individual and the business. He now manages large, complex group audits while building a non‑audit client portfolio, acting as the relationship lead and working closely with other service lines to deliver joined‑up solutions.
Reflections from the journey
Matt recalls the early days of being part of the first Apprentice Academy cohort as both exciting and demanding.
“Being the first brought opportunity, but also huge responsibility,” he said. “We were helping to shape what the programme would become for others. Some of my proudest moments aren’t tied to job titles or promotions, but to projects where I’ve seen the real impact of my work. That’s what drives you to keep improving.”
From a leadership perspective, career stories like Matt’s demonstrate the long-term value of investing in people early.
“Seeing apprentices progress into senior roles validates the original vision behind our Academy,” said Emma. “It’s tangible proof that when people are given the right tools and support, they grow alongside the business.”
Stephen Watts, Group Chief Operating Officer & Managing Partner, added: “Watching team members like Matt progress internally brings continuity for clients, capability and cultural strength. Those who grow through the ranks understand our values, clients and people in a way that external recruitment rarely replicates. Our clear progression routes also support strong succession planning and long‑term sustainability.”
Looking ahead
In August, Matt will celebrate 10 years with the business. A milestone he scarcely recognises.
“I really don’t know where the time’s gone,” he said. “The culture, the support, the people, and the banter are what have made the journey so enjoyable. I wouldn’t change a thing, and I’m genuinely excited for what the next 10 years hold.
“My advice to future apprentices would be work hard, drive your own career, don’t be scared to speak up, and don’t wait for people to do it for you. Put yourself forward for projects outside of your normal day job, sometimes it’s the little things that go a long way.”
As the employment landscape continues to change, with many firms reducing apprentice intake in response to evolving technologies and AI, TC’s experience demonstrates that investing in people still matters. The business continues to prioritise apprenticeships as a core part of its future talent pipeline, with four new apprentices due to join this September.
When built with purpose, apprenticeships become more than an entry point. They lay the foundations for long-term careers, shared success, and moments well worth celebrating.
Alongside Matt, other team members across TC’s Leicester, Milton Keynes, Northampton and Southampton offices are also marking significant work anniversaries this year from five and ten years to an exceptional 40. These milestones reflect the breadth of opportunity, from apprentices starting their careers to colleagues who’ve grown alongside the business for decades.
Find out more about careers at TC Group at their website or email tcsem-enquiries@tc-group.com
