Tax Apprentice Review

My job title is 'tax apprentice.' Daily I communicate with a range of colleagues and partners both with in my departments and throughout other departments within the company. I also interact with clients on a regular basis and third parties where required which can include banks, investment providers and third parties. As the deadline for submission of self-assessment tax returns was 31 January, I have been focusing on entering the relevant information to complete the tax return, liaising with clients, sending out and submitting tax returns. There has been a lot of opportunity for overtime and incentives to do so. Now that January is over I will be focusing on my corporate allocation and studying for my upcoming exams.

As I have previously worked in an office I knew the basics concerned with working in an office. However, I have learnt far more about personal taxation and what is involved as well as developing confidence in speaking to higher up members of staff such as partners and other members of higher management

Although the programme is far more challenging that I could have imagined, I do not regret making this decision. I am pushed and required to think hard and learn fast. I am surrounded by a supportive team and management. The company provides social events to help boost morale. I do not think I had a clear understanding of the job role from the description provided online.

It was a few months before I had a meeting with my manager to asses my progress. Since then the feedback I have gained from my manager and other members of staff have given me a great boost and increased my determination to succeed in this programme. I am confident that there is a great support system around me should I need it.

I feel that the programme is well structured so far as I know the exam/study path I will be taking and what falls when. My criticism would be that there is requirement to go to London for training and development days which are not relevant to my job role and require work in personal time which would be better used towards my studies.

My tutor at college has been great and although I haven't yet needed any assistance outside of college hours, it has been made readily available to me if required. College is made fun and interactive so it isn't just being talked at and there are a number of resources available online.

My employer is very supportive and there is a dedicated person responsible for dealing with any queries in relation to studies. However, it is made very clear that anyone will be willing to help where they can and if any assistance is needed to speak out and someone will be able to help.

I would say that if I was a school leaver, the salary would be very competitive, however, as I have previous work experience I would say it is low however, this is a decision I made to take which I know will be beneficial in the long run. If you are required to travel for college or attend training courses, these costs can be claimed back through work.

We are highly encouraged to get involved with charitable events. Also, social events such as Friday drinks and end of January meals are arranged which allows a relationship to be built outside of work. There are also events such as pub quizzes which are a great bonding opportunity and good for team building

Yes

Smith & Williamson are supportive company providing people who may not have achieved a degree the chance to build a real career. Everyone is warm and welcoming and you are really made to feel to be part of the team. The support from college is great and working alongside learning is for me far more beneficial than studying full time.

My advice would be preparation. Take the time to complete the application and entry tests to the best of your ability. Don't rush or think it is an easy process because it isn't. You need to be willing to put in the time and effort and carry out extensive research in to the company. If you are not willing to put the effort in, this job will not be for you.