Flying start degree programme Review

by PwC

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

6.6/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

This is a joined course with ICAEW, PwC and University of Reading. My first semester is spend in university and the second semester on placement in London. Then back to university for My ICAEW exams. During placement we are joining in busy season and we get to feel the workload at its peakest. This instills uppon us skills such as descipline, work under pressure and teamwork.

6/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

Scrutiny and an eye for detail. Also we get our head around the business world and learn how to approach colleagues and clients in an effective and innovative manner.

7/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

Really enjoyable, as during placement and university there is a strong community of flying starts. We have the opportunity to exchange views and we organise many socials. while on placement we get to help each other out with workload and tips. One of the main benefits its that all of the people on the course are mainly in their early 20s with common interests and hobbies.

6/10

4. How valued do you feel by PwC?

Flying starts were an invaluable asset for PwC. We provide extra labor hands during busy season. Assuming that you put the work in, there is no chance of this not being recognised. Just give your 100% everyday and you know that this will be appreciated. Personally my manager fully acknowledged my personal development targets and she has done her best to help me achieve them.

7/10

5. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The programme is really well organised. There are many people looking after us and support us during busy season. Apart from the flying start champion for each office, we also have an HR manager responsible for each university as well as a buddy during placement

6/10

6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?

Training both before and after placement enables us to see the bigger picture of what we are doing. There are also many e-learns that help you understand more about regulations and the job. Also lunch and learn sessions are also very common while on placement.

6/10

6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?

Being supportive, especially during brexit negotiations. Also a health assessment is conducted every year before placement.

6/10

7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?

For London Flying starts the salary we are paid its a bit tight for our costs. In my eyes London flying starts should get an extra amount of money to compensate for the high transport costs.

8/10

8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?

There are large social groups that organise social events every two weeks. Furthermore Christmas socials and volunteering events are organised every year.

7/10

9. Would you recommend PwC to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Good bunch of people downthere. You know that you are working with the best, coached from the best, and this gives you apart from skills and knowledge, confidence on proceeding with your career. Also there are lots of opportunities when moving from each department to the other.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to PwC?

If you know that you want to be an ICAEW chartered accountant do not hesitate. Assessment center is easy to medium difficulty if you follow the advice they give you before you attend. It's a kickstart for your career as you are a year ahead of the rest of the graduates.