Flying Start Degree programme - Year 4 Review

My role on the course varied from time spent on placement as an associate within the audit branch of the PwC firm to time spent at UoN as a full time student.

I have developed a range of intellectual, transferable and technical skills whilst on the course. I have learnt the technical side through textbook learning whilst at university and developed this further through practical implementation whilst on work placements.

Programme has many benefits to it, however as the fist year I believe it did also experience some teething problems across the 4 years.

Working for PwC is a great experience and the recognition from managers above you is present. However, as a wider firm, recognition further than this can get lost in the moderation process and not communicated efficiently.

The programme is very well structured, especially from the university side. The university course director and team constantly keep you up to date with e-mails around key dates, progress and are always around to answer questions and provide support. Internally, from the PwC side I think the programme could do with more support and at times e-mails with questions went unanswered.

The university team as a training provider are very supportive, especially the outgoing course director who has always been very proactive and forward it letting us know about upcoming requirements and opportunities. The supporting team should also be very valued as they always make time, provide guidance and offer support despite hectic schedules - which as a student on the programme is very helpful!

The firm is very supportive in assisting and providing support with areas that are unknown to employees. The internal systems of a PM and FS Champion, alongside the existing FS graduates are the most important source of support.

With the new OT policy for FS, the remuneration is better however the rating below is on the basis of no OT policy for P1 and P2. The salary was nothing to live on for those living at home and receiving the living at home allowance, provided little to nothing in terms of travel and bills support.

Yes, this is one area where the course excels. Whilst at university there are so many clubs , societies etc to join. In terms of PwC , there are SO many opportunities outside of work it is amazing! PwC OFOD was a huge success and the firm widely supports this and wider local community initiatives which are great to get involved with. Also there are many social events, wider finance events, WiF events and many more - all run or sponsored by PwC!

Yes

PwC provides a great opportunity at the beginning of a graduates career to be widely immersed in all aspects of accounting and finance. PwC has a HUGE range of opportunities outside of audit, of which you are unlikely to see elsewhere!

Understand what you are applying for, the hours and lifestyle is not suited for everyone so be prepared! Read about PwC initiatives outside of the usual Audit, Tax , Consulting - look to the future , what is PwC doing in terms of tech consulting, e-gaming? Know the PwC values and how you fit into them!