Trainee Associate Review

I'm working as a trainee associate (auditor). My daily tasks include visiting client sites, interacting with clients, setting up files ready for audit testing, testing payroll, testing investments, testing pensions. Some days I will do something completely different like help at a recruitment event or

I've taken 4 exams so far, these were in accounting, assurance, tax and law so I've gained a lot of technical knowledge. I've also attended training courses to better understand the pwc audit approach and why/how to test certain balances. My confidence has improved lots as I've had to learn how to interact with a lot of different people, some of whom are a lot older than me.

At first I didn't enjoy the programme a I struggled to get to know people and make friends as there was only 1 other person my age that had started at the same time as me but as the year has gone on I've met more people and enjoy working in a team. However it is hard work and you don't get much time off. It's difficult seeing your friends at Uni having lots of free time when you have very little.

I do feel very valued. I don't feel like people look down at me because I am younger and you definitely get priased for working hard and performing work at a high standard.

The induction was well organised and we have done some apprentice based training however we don't do things as a year group very often, I hardly see the other higher apprentices in other offices.

I'm sure if I needed support it would be there but as I've never asked for it I haven't recieved much support. we have a list of contacts we can email if we need support so I would say we are quite well supported.

We have a delegated people manager that we have regular meetings with to discuss progress at work, how I'm coping etc so I would say the support I receive from the employer is very good.

For the first half of the year I was living at home so I found the pay very reasonable however now I'm living in a flat in the city I'm finding money doesn't go as far.

There are lots of company events and away days throughout the year and lots of external groups to join. There are also discounted gym memberships available.

Yes

Because they don't dumb things down/patronnise you because you've just left school. They throw you into the deep end, treat you like and adult and expect you to mature very quickly.

Be confident when going into the interviews and prepare well. You get a lot of guidance as to what your interview will include before hand so make sure you use that guidance. On assessment days speak up but also remember to listen to others in the group. Try to contribute a lot. Take every opportunity and don't be scared.