Assistant Review

I work as an assistant in the Accounts and Business Advisory department at RSM. This mainly involves the preparation of financial accounts for a range of different companies using different software and accounting systems. I work alongside other members of the department when working on a job, each team member will be of a different role/standing in the department.

Yes, I have improved existing skills such as communication and teamwork since joining RSM. Through internal and external training courses I have been able to develop my skill and knowledge within the area that I work in. This has been shown by passing the exams that i have done as part of my professional studies.

I enjoy the apprenticeship programme very much. A main aspect of the programme that I enjoy is the combination of study and practical work, which was the big draw in myself first applying for apprenticeships. I enjoy working at RSM as I like the team (department) that I work for as well as the culture of the office.

The structure of the programme that I am completing is very clear and organised well. This has been communicated to me from the start and i receive regular contact from my training provider (BPP) regarding the qualification. This is most often through progress reviews and emails with the support team. There is also plenty of work and learning support provided by BPP as well.

My manager joins me in the progress reviews that i have with BPP in order to update everyone with my progress within the role and my studying. Progress reviews are quarterly in order to keep track of my progress in the qualification as well as setting goals/targets. Any problems that i have with my work/job i can find an answer to by asking other members of the team, who have completed/are completing the similar courses.

I receive a lot of support from BPP as i first attend course training three weeks before sitting the exam. The tutors are on hand to teach us the course and can be contacted after with any questions. I am given plenty of learning material to complete, for example a question book and online learning hub with more practice material. This ensures that i have as much revision material as possible prior to the exam.

The qualification is very relevant to my role so the skills and knowledge i gain whilst completing separate courses can be used in my role at RSM. The first few courses i completed gave my a solid foundation of industry skills and knowledge which is used in my day-to-day role. Further courses will become more specific and technical too.

My company is very socially active and supportive. I regularly play 5-aside football for the company against other companies in the local area. I have also participated in departmental social activities, such as mini-golf, as well as whole-office social events, for example we had a end of year quiz in December. There are many other social activities held throughout the year, which i will make sure to join in with.

Yes

It provides a great opportunity to kickstart a career in finance without the financial burden of going to university as there are many apprenticeship roles being offered each year. For example, at the time i joined the company i was one of 6 apprentices to join the office alongside some university graduates.

My advice would be to apply as early as possible to demonstrate your eagerness for the role as this is always well thought of by possible employers. For interviews apart from the obvious I would say to keep calm and enjoy it, with the video interviews don't worry if you make a mistake.