KPMG 360 Apprentice Review

As a 360 apprentice, working life is always exciting, new and full of learning opportunities. My day to day commitments are very different now in Audit than when I was doing my placement in corporate tax. In Audit I'm on client site working on client accounts to help complete the audit. In tax, everyday was different. An example of tasks I would complete on client computations and help to ring HMRC on behalf of clients.

I am half way through my AAT level 3 qualifications. I have taken part in many training sessions to do with my placements but also soft skills. I found a networking session that we had particularly valuable and the skills I have learnt I applied to my job.

I really enjoy the programme, I think the opportunity it unique the idea of rotating is exactly what a young person needs. When you leave school and want a career in accounting, there is no way of you knowing which area you are going to enjoy most for a career. The opportunity to rotate is such an invaluable experience that allows you to make an informed choice on where you want your future to lie. I really enjoy the working culture and everyone is so patient and willing to help you. There's plenty of social opportunities and opportunities to have fun!

I feel really valued by KPMG. You gain responsibility straight away and your skill and hard work is massively valued. Pieces of work are recognised and positive feedback is often given. I've worked with people of all levels and learnt so much from them in the process.

The induction and training at the start of the programme was very organised which helped us all settle into the firm. The support systems in place are one thing makes you feel really valued. We have a performance manager, people leader and buddy in our placement that we can all turn directly to as well as many other people depending on the question or need we have. Our time is very well divided and is organised well by the management team. We have lots of different things going on and they help manage this.

We go to college for AAT exams and have a mixture of online and in person college. The training provider is very quick to respond and provide answers to any questions you have.

There are many support systems in place. I know I can turn to my performance manager with any questions or queries I have. The professional qualifications team are always there if we have trouble with our exams and are a really valuable. KPMG really want to support us as young people and help us grow during our time in the firm. In each placement you will have a buddy who will be a really useful person for you to turn to when you have any questions or need some guidance.

I am based in the Reading office, we have free car parking which helps me to save money everyday and simplifies my commute. My wage more than covers my expenditure. The lunch allowance is a really valuable perk and helps to save money everyday.

There are many social opportunities, as an apprentice we have opportunities in our team, as an office and with our programme. We had our programme Christmas party in Canary Wharf with Ice skating and other activities. I am keen to get involved with charities and have been able to do this on the charity committee. KPMG are very supportive with volunteer opportunities and actively encourage everyone to get involved. I play football after work bi-weekly with colleagues also.

Yes

I feel KPMG is really supportive in everything I do and wants to build me as a person as well as a professional. I have really enjoyed my time so far and am looking forward to the opportunities to come.

I would say when applying to KPMG, try to get as much work experience as you can. These soft skills really shine through in the assessment centre. The contacts from you work experience can also help you directly with your application. I did an internship and managed to get a mentor from it. He suggested interview books for me to read and I'm sure his help and guidance benefitted me massively in getting the job here.