Apprentice Review

My current job role is within the technology department, where I work in my team to carry out different client tasks. This includes my daily tasks of working on different platforms and tools to enhance the safety of our client and their information. As the scope of the work being done is fairly large, I get the opportunity of trying out different things and interacting with different people on a regular basis, with my responsibilities also changing from task to task.

This apprenticeship has also provided me with the chance to extend my qualifications as I am currently studying an AAT qualification whilst working. There has also been a great influence on learning new skills by taking part in various internal training courses, that are flexible to suit my working structure as well. From my time being here, I have also learnt a wide range of personal and professional skills from both my colleagues around me and the situations I face at work, such as effective communication and personal development through learning.

Having a good company culture and a good scope of work has made this programme really enjoyable for me. The team that I am in currently is very supportive and helpful with both the work and anything else that I needed help with around the firm. Everyone at KPMG is always willing to teach, which makes the company culture even better.

With the large amount of support and help around me makes me feel very valued at KPMG. This is increased by lots of events being held for us apprentices as well as internal recognition through appraisals and regular performance development meetings. All new joiners are taken care of to a great extent and are involved in the majority of events that take place at the firm.

The programme is very well structured with us taking part in an induction week prior to joining the office as an opportunity to learn more about the firm, the work and being able to meet new people. There was also a wide range of training available, both physical and online, as well as support for studying and working. The level of support is high from all angles and is available at any time where an apprentice may need it.

The tutors are always available to answer any queries or solve any issues that apprentices may have, which we experienced, both online and physically when being out of the office for studying. They have a positive attitude when providing help and support as well as having an online webpage and emails for constant help at any time.

Being an apprentice at KPMG provides a lot of support, from my manager, my team, my performance manager and the apprenticeship management team. There is easy access to support and guidance at any time when it may be required and there is always a positive attitude when dealing with any issues that arise. Apprentices are made to feel at ease when accessing support and help and are greatly encouraged to ask for it.

The daily costs and travel cost are fairly reasonable and easy to manage, even if someone is located a bit further away from the office. Overall, the salary is sufficient to cover costs, such as social, living, travelling and any daily costs that may occur, especially as KPMG is able to support with these costs if needed, such as prior to joining work.

KPMG largely encourages any opportunities for activities, events and volunteering to be undertaken. This helps to enhance the idea of a work-life balance that is needed by taking part in such events as well as doing more things outside of work as well. The firm also has a wide range of societies and clubs that employees could get involved with, such as a Gym or different sports clubs.

Yes

There is a wide range of opportunities available at KPMG within each sector along with the opportunity of being able to learn something new every day. The level of support and guidance is very large, which makes the transition process to KPMG fairly easy as well as the broad networking opportunities that can be used for many reasons.

One piece of advice that I would give to someone applying to KPMG would be to take part in as many extra-curricular activities and events as you can. This is because it makes the interview process and assessment day easy for you as you would feel more comfortable doing it as well as for the interviewer as they are able to assess you well based on your actions and answers. This will help to make you stand out and give you a lot to talk about.