STEP Exam Success

Armstrong Watson is delighted to announce that Helen Thornley, who works as a Tax Consultant at its Kendal and Penrith offices has achieved distinctions in both the tax and accounting papers for the Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners (STEP). Helen has now qualified for full STEP membership.

STEP is the leading worldwide body for those working in the fields of trusts, estates and related issues. Like many STEP members, Helen already has related qualifications being both a Chartered Accountant and Chartered Tax Adviser.

Helen has beaten the odds to achieve her distinctions. For the Trust and Estate Accounting Diploma paper the distinction rate was 37% and for the Taxation of Trusts and Estates Diploma paper the distinction rate was 11% (14 out of 133 candidates gained a distinction) the pass rate was 69%.

Bob Wheatcroft, Head of Tax at Armstrong Watson said “All of us at Armstrong Watson are immensely proud of Helen’s achievements in obtaining the STEP qualification. It is testament to her hard work, professionalism and dedication that she has achieved such excellent passes in her exams whilst working full time providing top quality advice to our clients.”

After graduating from Cambridge University, Helen qualified as a chartered accountant with Grant Thornton before moving to the Lakes and passing her chartered tax advisor exams. Working in Penrith and Kendal offices she deals with a wide variety of clients on issues including Inheritance Tax, Capital Gains Tax and trust matters. Helen particularly enjoys dealing with clients with overseas issues.

Helen loves being outside in the Lake District - walking, biking, and even a spot of outdoor swimming.