Flying Start Degree Programme - FS1 - Fulcrum Review

I am a member of a large audit team for a large global banking client. My role involves auditing financial statements and information. This is as a component auditor for group reporting purposes and regulated entities for statutory purposes. I have been involved in controls testing, substantive procedures and conclusion analytics.

I have developed a lot of skills while on placement. One of these is team working. In my role, you are constantly working with new people. You have to be able to build an effective working relationship very quickly and work together to complete the task. I have also massively developed my Excel skills. As I am using it every day I have gone from a novice to being able to use the programme effectively very quickly.

I have greatly enjoyed the programme as it has allowed me to develop many skills and meet a lot of new people. I have enjoyed working long hours and feel rewarded when the job gets done. I have very much enjoyed the break from University and the contrast in lifestyles.

Overall the programme is well organised. My team has embraced Fulcrum well and I didn't feel lost at any point. There is a good support network around me so I always had someone to ask if I was unsure. We also have admin days at the start and end of placement which allowed time to ease in and out.

I am very well supported by PwC. I receive training on audit in the form of e-learns. There is also optional training available such as Alteryx training. The salary is very competitive and they pay overtime to reward your hard work. There is also a flexible working policy so if I needed time at home for any reason I could work from home.

I complete the majority of my professional exams at university. I receive lots of help in the form of lectures, seminars and other resources made available on blackboard. We are also provided the relevant text books free of charge which is invaluable when studying for a challenging qualification. PwC also provide time in college to complete the remaining exams post university.

The ACA massively helps the role I perform day to day. By doing the exams provided by ICAEW I am constantly expanding my knowledge of accountancy and business more widely. The knowledge learnt is used on a regular basis. Of particular use for my current role is the audit and assurance module.

There are plenty of social events set up by members of PwC. Everyone in Fulcrum is sorted into houses and social activities are organised for each house. These activities have included bowling, drinks, paint balling etc. There is also a Fulcrum 5 a side football. In addition there is also a Fulcrum newsletter which you can be involved in producing.

Yes

PwC provides a great opportunity to build a career. Career progression is swift, salary is competitive and support is great. As the firm is so broad and worldwide, there is plenty of opportunity for internal movement. This could be in the form of a secondment abroad or role switch within the firm. For example moving to deals from assurance.

I would advise everyone to take every opportunity provided by PwC. The firm really invests heavily in its people and you can get a lot from the firm if you take the opportunities provided. I would also advise being enthusiastic and ready to learn. The firm knows that people can come from no experience and need time to find their footing. As long as you are willing to learn and improve that's all they ask for.