Flying Start Associate Review

Performing auditing services across a wide range of FSLIs (areas of the file). Testing key areas such as revenue, journals, expenses etc. Perform work as part of a team, getting to know lots of different people. Every few weeks I work with a different team at a different location, lots of variety.

Yes, I have significantly improved my leadership skills. As a Flying Start 3 I am now requested to coach more junior members and to assist them with their work. This is a brilliant job for improving your confidence and leadership skills. Also improved my work ethic and people skills too.

Great programme, by completing 12/15 exams whilst at University it gives you a great boost into a finance career. When you join the firm full-time you will be ahead of new graduates from top universities. You gain a lot of experience from the 3 different placements as well. Would highly recommend the programme.

Well organised and structured, the exam structure is good, balancing the tough exams out across the entirety of the course. The placements in the final 3 years break up the term nicely, leaving enough time to come back and revise for exams in the summer. Do not appreciate a dissertation being brought in after joining the course however.

A lot of support is provided. Accommodation is fully paid for when on placement, the accommodation is of an incredibly high standard too, a nice treat when you have been living in a student house. You are designated support managers in case you have any issues during placement too, very good.

The training provider is the University, a lot of support is provided in terms of lectures. High quality teaching is provided and the textbooks and other learning materials are all provided for free of charge. If any additional assistance is required there are people who are provided that can help (personal tutors etc.)

The training provided in the form of lectures etc is extremely beneficial before going on placement. The actual placement training is not particularly useful though. It is extremely difficult to create an imitation work atmosphere in training, best way to learn is by getting stuck in on placement rather than doing e-learns.

There are some social activities but not really during placement. The 3 placements are during 'busy season' which often means people do not have much spare time to attend/organise social events. There are sports events available (weekly 5 a side football etc) if that is what somebody wants to do.

Yes

Although the hours in busy season can be tough and the work can be stressful at times. The job overall is a great experience and you get to know some great people. You will not find a better University course in the UK if you want to become a chartered accountant.

If you are unsure accounting is what you would like to do I would be hesitant to apply. If you are clueless about what you want to do when older I would not recommend this course. However, if you see yourself in a high flying finance role by the age of 30 then this is certainly one of the best options you have.