Trainee Associate Review

Working in private client compliance, preparing and dealing with tax returns for a range of individuals, predominately high net worth individuals. Communicating with HMRC to resolve issues and answering queries from clients. Creating tax estimates and calculating allowances for clients to ensure they are aware of how much they can contribute to their pension for example.

I've gained and developed a number of skills. I've learned a huge amount within tax (I had no prior knowledge, not even what the personal allowance was!). Can now comfortably prepare even complex returns and confidently explain my methodology. Developed communication skills - regularly contributing and being encouraged to join in team discussions/meetings.

The culture within PwC is exceptional - definitely a great place to begin and develop a career. Before joining, I'd read that everyone is approachable and willing to help not thinking it would be true, but it really is. I'm yet to experience anyone (no matter how senior) who is not happy to answer questions and make you feel comfortable asking them.

One of the advantages no doubt of such a large network in PwC is that the programme is very well organised. It is made very clear to new joiners, where they can expect to be throughout their apprenticeship, whether that is pay or grade. Training courses, both internally and externally are regularly arranged so you get a good range of knowledge. For example, although I work in tax, Corporate Tax training was also given to us to help with development, networking and with exams.

This is another area of particular strength at PwC - there is a strong support network. New joiners are given buddies to help their induction to the world of work and/or PwC and all members of staff are given Career Coaches who are there to support you in your development and to answer any queries you may have. As well as these formal roles, the culture within PwC is a very supportive one, particularly with more junior members of the team.

PwC uses Kaplan for qualifications. Tutors are very knowledgeable as is to be expected but they're also very accessible. Any queries can be sent to them via email and you can be sure to get a response within a few working days. All learning materials are sent to you, so there's no pressure on you to purchase and find the materials you need.

The qualification I'm currently doing (ATT) helps massively with my role. Things like Share Pools and Furnished Holiday Lets helped out a lot with preparing tax returns. Asking the tutors specific questions that were confusing when doing tax returns was very helpful and enabled me to perform my role better.

Each office has their own social network group who arrange social events. These range from going to the pub after work to go-karting. This is great for getting to know colleagues and meet people with similar hobbies to yourself. As well as this, volunteering for charity events and helping with recruitment events is encouraged

Yes

So many opportunities to get involved in a range of things that will help you develop both personally and professionally. Working with the best in the industry who are willing to support and coach you to be the best you can be. Very structured and well organised apprenticeship scheme that gets you qualified quicker than going to university and joining a grad scheme will.

I would say to do your research on the role you are applying to. PwCs website is a great place to do this as it highlights on there what your role will be. This will give you an edge when it comes to the interview stage as you will be able to showcase your passion and commitment to a career at PwC. Don't worry if you're not 100% sure what you want to do though, as once you're in PwC, there are plenty of opportunities to get secondments into other teams and areas of the firm.