Degree Apprentice Review

The whole nature of my programme is to rotate around the different technology teams before deciding to specialise in a specific team. I am in a current placement which focuses on creating interactive e-learning courses for clients. As a junior staff member, my role is to use the software and create course.

I have gained Level 3 AAT during my time in KPMG and currently working towards a BSc in Digital & Technology Solutions. I have developed my presentation skills as well as my communication skills, both written and verbal.

The work is varied which is good and the team is extremely friendly which is one of the things I love about KPMG. The people are really what makes KPMG stand out from the rest. The company is good to work for and the culture is amazing. However, I cannot say that I love my programme. I'm not fond of the teaching in the programme and I think it can be improved.

A lot of senior members of the firm value apprentices and they are totally behind us giving us the verbal support we need. We get recognition from internal managers when we exceed expectations which is good. However, in terms of reward, I would say it needs to be improved.

My programme was well organised when it first came into existence and there was regular catch ups to make sure we're settled and the support was there. There was an induction and the studying was set. We had a buddy in the team which is always helpful. To be perfectly honest, there's a lack of communication from the programme management which is annoying, there needs to be open and honest conversations. However, saying that, it's understandable as this is a new programme and it needs time to get used to.

Training provider is very supportive and they regularly check up on me to see how I'm doing.

I receive a good amount of support from my employer and I can always go to them should I have any problems and they can provide me with guidance.

To be perfectly honest, I don't think I get paid as much as I should. Compared to other firms, I don't get as much. As an apprentice, I do the same work as a graduate, if not more yet I get paid extremely less than them even though I have much more experience as I have been here for a couple years.

There are numerous opportunities to volunteer outside of work as KPMG really care about the community. There are a lot of leisure/sport clubs that I can be a part of.

Yes

I would recommend because the culture here at KPMG is really good and the people here is what makes KPMG unique. There are opportunities to try out different things. The only downfall for an apprentice is the salary but that's not my main motivator. I prefer job satisfaction and with KPMG, job satisfaction is what you get.

Prepare for every stage, they're all as important as each other. Research the company and see what they look for in an individual. Match your experiences to the values. The main thing is to prepare. Remember, if you fail to prepare then prepare to fail.