Summer School Programme-Tax Review

Involved in the Summer School programme and specifically in the Tax Department.Daily tasks involved preparing letters,updating company information,helping in preparing returns,sitting in on meetings,drafting emails and proof checking information. I mainly interacted with the corporate tax team and was responsible for completing the work assigned to me. I was involved in a project to help the marketing team within BDO .

I learnt to be more precise as my mistakes i had overlooked were pointed out to me as well as a basic understanding of alphatax. I have also gained a much broader knowledge on tax in the UK and what exactly an accounting firm can do for its clients.

I enjoyed working in the team as there is a very friendly company culture around at all times.I also enjoyed certain aspects of the work when i was learning to do something new and then left to attempt it which gave me a sense that i was trusted.It fairly met my expectations.

I was treated like a fellow colleague with my opinion sought after and a certain level of responsibilty placed on me.A part of the company culture is mutual support and respect and that is felt through every interaction with every employee from trainees to managers.I was involved in peoples tasks and was valued because of the trust placed in me.

Induction was well organised as it was both informative and fun mixing in information about the firm as well as time to bond with fellow summer school attendees.The first day began with a base knowledge and application of tax and then the following days were being given assignments.There was continuing support and i was never given something i hadnt been given any instruction on.There was a mentor system which gave me a buddy within the firm who was a part of the school leaver programme to show me around and generally just support and advise me.There was also a meeting with a manager to check how things were going and try to make sure i got all the experiences i had been hoping to have in BDO.Overall the programme was well organised.

Complete support and it was almost always available.

Complete support that was always available and well recieved.General attitude was helpful and friendly.

Most work experiences do not offer a salary so this was a pleasant surprise.Travelling costs really depend on where you live and the office you choose to do your work experience and less on the actual salary itself.

The company had just held a soccer tournament the week when i arrived and the Gatwick office is located near the airport with shops and restaurants.

Yes

It is an essential experience if you want to work in the finance sector and gives you a real feeling of what everyday life would be like working in a large multinational company.

Dont be too nervous in your interview as the interviewees are very friendly and try to get work experience at a branch nearby where you live as this greatly saves on costs.