A KIDDERMINSTER accounts trainee has attained the highest exam results internationally in the ACA (Associate of the Institute of Chartered Accountants for England and Wales) taxation module.

Ben Powell, 24, who works at Droitwich-based accountancy practice Ballard Dale Syree Watson LLP, also became a father earlier this year. He has had to manage his studies on top of the demands of parenthood, of five-and-a-half-month-old daughter Ella, with wife Nikki.

Earlier in the year Mr Powell, who attended Wolverley High School, was also nominated for an ICAEW Trainee Accountant of the Year award.

He will be invited to London in 2014 to receive the Leo T Little award. Leo T Little was the editor of Accountancy magazine, the ICAEW’s own publication, for over two decades.

The taxation module in the ACA examination was two hours, 30 minutes long and Mr Powell attained the highest mark both in Europe and the rest of the world.

He said: “It is very difficult trying to juggle my studies, parenthood and work but I’m very lucky that I have a wonderfully supportive wife. My colleagues at Ballards are fantastic mentors and have encouraged me along the way.

“They are all so approachable and even the senior partners are never too busy to help me and share their experiences and give me advice on certain aspects of my studies.”

Ballards’ business development director Steven Jones said. “From day one Ben stood out as someone who applied himself to every task he was given and obviously he has displayed the same aptitude and willingness to work hard in his studies.

“Students leaving further education may not realise that professional accountancy qualifications can be achieved without going to university, which can be prohibitive for some people.

“As a trainee Ben has combined his studies with the experience he has obtained in the workplace and accomplished exceptional results and he is a credit to both the practice and his family.”