Apprentice Review

I am on the technology route of the KPMG360 programme which is a degree apprenticeship. My job role changes depending on the placement I am in. The technology teams vary at KPMG with teams who are developing apps to data analytics teams. As a junior member of the tech teams, I get excellent exposure to technology tools and work on delivering solutions for some very large clients as expected for a Big4 firm. Most tech teams have the very technical aspect but also have tasks that junior members of the team who don't yet possess the technical skills can get involved with whilst they build up their technical knowledge. For example the Digital Mobile Solutions team have several sub teams such as the Business Analyst, development and user experience teams. Therefore when you join the team you can work with the business analysts whilst learning the C# programming language used by the development team or improve your Photoshop skills and then be able to work alongside the user experience team. There is no difference between the responsibilities given to an apprentice on this programme and a graduate trainee therefore it is up to you as an individual to demonstrate a 'can do' attitude and take on more responsibility.

On the technology route I am study for a BSc degree in Digital Technology Solutions, this will help me build my technical knowledge and also focuses on professional development through the professional practise modules. Studying a working at the same time requires you to develop time management skills. I have considerably improved my communication skills and also developed new skills such as stakeholder management. KPMG also has an excellent training platform, the KPMG Business School allows you to gain both technical knowledge and courses designed to improve soft skills.

I was going to study for a technology degree at university but this programme has allowed me to gain a technology degree without any fees whilst gaining experience alongside this. The work is exciting as the technology teams at KPMG are evolving continuously and are focused on working with the latest technologies. The teams are great and supportive, the culture at KPMG is very people orientated. Also glad to work for a employer who accommodate religious commitments.

I feel valued in the teams that I work with as they do not judge you based on the fact that you do not have a degree or your age but rather the enthusiasm that you show. No distinction is made between a graduate and an apprentice, in fact if new graduates or experienced professionals join the team, the apprentice who is already in the team will more often than not assist them with getting introduced to the tools used by the team etc.

The programme is well structured given the fact that it has been running for 2 years so far. Management are continually trying to improve the experience for apprentices on the programme.

Support is always available from tutors. However as the degree is fully delivered online, the commination barrier exists in that sense. There have been discussions on the possibility of some face to face sessions with the training provider.

KPMG is very people focused, they understand people are their biggest asset. I feel there is a lot of support available and there is good communication of the avenues of support available at the firm.

Salary is competitive.

There are several societies that you can get involved with. KPMG has a gym you can take advantage of. Many opportunities to get involved with CSR.

Yes

Great values, people focused, market leaders.

Be yourself.