Accounting and Finance students collaborate on project with Chatsworth House

Our students regularly have opportunities to gain valuable skills before graduation through real-world briefs. Third year Accounting and Finance students recently had the chance to present their business solutions to Chatsworth, one of the UK’s most renowned stately homes, as part of their module coursework in Management Accounting Performance Evaluation.

Putting skills into practice in the real world

Modules are built around proposing solutions for real business challenges, ensuring students gain experience and have opportunities to bring their learning to life in real-world environments. Our third-year Accounting and Finance, and Business Accounting and Finance students initially visited Chatsworth house to hear from their team, ask questions and tour the house and gardens. They were then tasked with a brief to make recommendations to Chatsworth on how their business could either improve revenue generation or reduce costs. Students with exceptional responses were invited to return to Chatsworth to present their findings to the team.

Betina Stolpestad, a third year Accounting and Finance student selected to present her work, says:

“We had the pleasure of going around the garden and explore the house, which was absolutely amazing. It was also very helpful as we were given a presentation from the Chatsworth team upon arrival, with valuable information for our assessment. Walking around also has us essential opportunities to look into pricing strategies and sustainability initiatives around the estate and shops.”

Practical learning

Edenline Arciaga, who was also selected to present her work back to Chatsworth, credits the practicality of the modules for helping her gain a solid basis in accounting as well as growing her confident through opportunities during her studies:

“Most modules focus on aspects that I will definitely need in the future, as well as giving a glimpse of how real-world companies work. Endless opportunities will come along your way and will shape not only your personality, but your professional career prospects.”

Exploring Derbyshire

The fieldtrip and presentations were also an opportunity for students to explore Chatsworth House from a visitor’s perspective, both to aid their consultancy work, but also as an opportunity to explore Derbyshire.

‘The experience was amazing, as someone who came from a different country and culture, being able to see a part of heritage and history of the place was magical and it felt like I had gone back in time!’ Edenline Arciaga

Explore Accounting at Derby

Both Betina and Edenline have similar advice for anyone considering studying Accounting and Finance at Derby:

“Take advantage of an Open Day! There is a lot to see and a lot to explore. University of Derby might be your next home!” Edenline Arciaga, BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance

“Go to an open day, talk to the staff and ask all the questions you possibly can do. You have nothing to lose, but everything to gain from it!” Betina Stolpestad, BA (Hons) Business Accounting and Finance

Explore our Accounting, Economics and Finance courses