Laura Gregory: Shaping Future Accountants with Purpose

Faculty and Staff

04 Feb 2025

Laura Gregory’s journey began in Kimberley, where her family moved due to her father's role as a group accountant for De Beers. Laura attended a private school and completed her matric at Kimberley Girls’ High School. In 2016, Laura transitioned back to academia with a maternity cover position at Nelson Mandela University, which she held until 2018. During this time, she earned her CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants) designation, focusing on strategy, cost, and management accounting.
In 2023, Laura embarked on an exciting new role at Milpark Education, where she now lectures in the BCom Accounting degree programme. She appreciates Milpark Education's collaborative, people-centred culture, a refreshing change from the politics often seen in academia.

Insights on Teaching and Learning

Last semester, Laura taught two modules: Strategy and Leadership in Value Creation, and Financial Reporting and Compliance. The strategy module emphasised the human element of business, illustrating how individuals values impact operations and culture. She was inspired by students evaluating the broader consequences of business decisions, including ethical considerations beyond profit.

Laura highlights, “Collaborating with colleagues at Milpark Education is incredibly rewarding. The environment encourages open discussions, creativity, and collaboration. We brainstorm innovative ideas to enhance our students' learning experiences. This culture contrasts sharply with other institutions where rapid pace limits meaningful dialogue.”

At Milpark Education’s School of Professional Accounting, everyone’s ideas are welcome, fostering a culture of shared exploration.” The financial reporting module was equally rewarding. By intertwining accounting with taxation, students learned to consider technical and strategic dimensions, revealing their growing understanding of integrated financial concepts.

Laura explains, “My students come from diverse backgrounds. The cross-generational dialogue enriched discussions, with younger students offering fresh ideas and older students sharing insights shaped by experience.”

Milpark Education’s BCom Accounting Degree

Creating and launching the BCom Accounting degree has been an incredible journey for Laura. Reflecting on her role in this initiative, she states, “Contributing to something impactful fills me with pride, knowing our hard work will make a significant difference in students’ lives.” The degree's success stems not only from the final product but also from daily dedication and teamwork.

Personalised Learning Experiences and Support Systems

Milpark Education excels at catering to diverse student needs, offering accounting qualifications that are SAICA-endorsed. Laura shares the story of a student who struggled with commuting and safety concerns at a traditional university but found success at Milpark, pursuing her dreams of becoming a chartered accountant.

“She’s now thriving and studying from home without worrying about traffic or safety. Her experience illustrates how the School of Professional Accounting adapts to individual circumstances,” says Laura.
Comprehensive support beyond academics includes lecturers available for consultations throughout the week, and live sessions facilitate interactive learning. Students can also access the Student Wellness Programme, offering mental health support and workshops on time management. Laura emphasises the transformative nature of these resources compared to her university experience.

Engaging and Practical Learning in Accounting Education

The BCom Accounting degree uses a case study method, allowing students to develop a business throughout their studies, making content engaging and relevant. “The case study method makes education real for students,” Laura explains. “It encourages critical thinking and active engagement. This format fosters student contributions, which they greatly value.”

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Small Classes, Big Impact

With small class sizes, 9 students in Financial Reporting and Compliance and 17 in Strategy and Leadership, Laura believes in the advantages of personalised learning. “These smaller groups allow for individualised attention and meaningful participation during live sessions,” she comments.

In the upcoming year, Laura will teach the third-year modules, including a new focus on coaching and leadership. She is enthusiastic about fostering personal growth in her students, aligning with her passion for developing leadership skills.

The innovative degree prepares students for various career paths including accounting, management accounting, auditing, and more. Graduates have access to postgraduate studies and qualifications like the Chartered Accountant (CA) designation.

Final Thoughts

Laura hopes her students learn that life and work are intertwined. Success is not solely about technical competence but also about aligning personal values with professional goals. “I encourage them to enjoy the journey, embrace challenges, and celebrate achievements. Life is not just about reaching a destination; it’s about valuing the process,” she states.

If you’re ready to take the next step towards a dynamic career in accounting, explore the BCom Accounting degree at Milpark Education. Join a programme designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and support needed to succeed. Apply today and start your journey towards a future in professional accounting!

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Laura Gregory Lecturer for School of Professional Accounting