Flying Start Degree programme - FS3 Birmingham (Fulcrum) Review

I performed statutory audit and assurance over the accounts of Asset and Wealth Management clients who are based in London. I primarily worked on these engagements remotely from Birmingham, co-ordinating with a larger London based team. This involved carrying out testing on a range of FSLIs largely on a sample basis.

I have built upon the knowledge I have gained in this area over my prior two placements through further exposure to these types of engagements. I have improved my ability to work remotely by communicating more clearly and effectively over webchats and videocalls, a skill which I rarely used previously.

The placement can be quite enjoyable due to the large number of University colleagues in my cohort as this means we already know a number of people we work alongside. There is a largely positive and inclusive culture in all areas of the business which I have encountered, making it an enjoyable place to work.

The structure of our programme is key in our development as we finish University having spent effectively one year of work placement. Our placements are always at the busiest time of the year, which is when we learn the most and as such maximises our development meaning we can be an asset to the firm when starting full time.

There are strong established support networks within PwC as a firm in general, through the appointment of People Managers/Career Coaches to each individual. For the Flying Start programme, the programme managers and Flying Start Champs in each office provide an additional support network, which we can rely on during our placements.

Our work towards our qualifications is primarily university based, the development of a course which encompasses most of our ACA exams but with the feel of a traditional university programme makes it easier to work towards this challenging qualification. I feel this is a superior way to work towards achieving this demanding qualification.

The ACA is a qualification very specific to the Accounting profession, as a result we complete at least one module which is relevant to any career in this industry. The fact that we have already completed 2 exams in the area of audit by our second placement helps our knowledge.

The age profile of Fulcrum is very young. As a result of this there is a very social atmosphere in the office. There are regular organised socials as well as a number of weekly activities, such as a quiz in the office which also contributes to this atmosphere very positively.

Yes

The firm provides an excellent start in a highly competitive industry. There is plenty of scope to advance within the firm and an established transfer process to enable people to move into a range of areas in the firm, which enable them to work in almost all areas of accountancy

Research the area of the firm they are applying to in detail as the popularity of the firm means it is quite a competitive selection process. As a result adequate preparation is absolutely essential in this process. By attempting to find out about the key clients of the office which they are applying for they can give themselves a strong advantage.