Tax Analyst Apprentice Review

I work as a Tax Analyst - it involves working with a large group of people to process tax documentation in order for our clients to suffer the correct tax rates. Daily responsibilities include receiving post, updating spreadsheets, replying to emails. processing tax documents and updating the figures in our morning meetings.

I'm working towards the Level 4 qualification - I've also completed many internal courses such as Social Networking Awareness and Anti-Money Laundering. I'm going on an external training boot camp next month to learn about leadership. I've developed a lot of personal skills such as confidence and organization, as well as professional skills like appropriate conduct or how to write emails. I've learnt a lot about excel, for example how to use the formulas effectively.

At first I found it challenging to get the right balance between the work and the course. I have struggled a lot with the first exam and I'm currently on my third retake. My team is extremely supportive of me and give me extra time to study if I need it. The team is very busy and hardworking, it's nice to feel like I'm working really hard. It is a lot more emotionally challenging than I thought it would be, and I have felt under a lot of stress a times. Overall however, I do enjoy working here and feel I have made the right choice in choosing this apprenticeship.

I get a lot of praise from my manager and team for my efforts at work. I've been given more and more responsibility as I've grown in confidence and ability. I've taken part in lots of events outside of work and have always received gratitude and positive feedback from externals. I've taken part in many group tasks and projects in my role, I've always felt valued and been thanked for my input afterwards.

The induction involved a two week boot camp, we were given talks by lots of existing employees and apprentices. Afterwards I felt very prepared for the first week in the office. All my questions were answered and I felt I had a lot of support around me. I was assigned two 'buddy' apprentices from the cohort above - we meet regularly and they give me support and advice with anything I am finding challenging. I have 1-to-1 meetings with my manager, we discuss my progress and make plans for my career.

Their is a separate email address that we can use for questions and support - I've used this a couple of times and received a response within minutes each time. It's great to know you'll get an answer that quickly. We're given lots of different materials to revise from so there's something for everyone. The lectures are of a high quality and our lecturer will always answer questions or repeat the topics we find more challenging.

My Manager is always available if I need to talk about any concerns or challenges that I'm facing. The HR team was great during the onboarding process and kept me well updated. My mentors are always keeping in contact and supporting me. I know there is a list of different people I could turn to if I needed support. Everyone is always more than happy to give me their time.

I can afford to pay rent and utilities, contribute to my pension, buy groceries, as well as being able to go on holidays/eat out at restaurants and go on days out at the weekend. I cycle to work and chose to purchase food at work which is afforadable.

I have a corporate membership at the gym that is just outside of work, I use this to go swimming during lunch breaks and take part in classes/go to the gym in the evening. I've volunteered in a couple of initiatives such as a gardening project and Missing Maps event. The local area around Bournemouth and Poole is full of things to do such as the Beach, the New Forest, bars, restaurants and shops. When I'm not working I like to go out with the other Apprentices, go to the gym, go to the beach and of course revise for my exams!

Yes

Good alternative to university - you get to learn and work towards qualifications as well as earning money and starting a career. Great culture at J.P Morgan, lots of opportunities to enhance your experience e.g. Sports clubs, working groups, internal and external training and events.

Your C.V is a crucial document that you should work very hard on making as good as possible. Dress smartly at all stages of the recruitment process. Keep in mind that you're always being watched and assessed - think about how you conduct yourself.