Business Services Apprentice Review

We are based on a rotational programme, which means we change roles every 6 months. My first rotation was Student recruitment. I had a varied range of tasks and was given a large amount of responsibility. I was involved in every element of the recruitment process. I also managed my own projects. My current role is Business Support. This involves diary management, booking rooms/travel/meetings and taking minutes in meetings.

I have learnt lots of new skills. In my first rotation I learnt how to manage a project from start to finish which helped me with interpersonal skills, project management, time management and IT skills. I also had the opportunity to make recommendations for improvements in process which really allowed me to develop and strive for continual improvement.

I enjoy my programme to a large extent as we have the opportunity to work with other apprentices outside our day to day role. There is a varied range of activities which we can get involved in as cohort. I have been supported from the beginning of my programme and this has made my experience enjoyable. Along with all of the responsibility I gain in my role and during my studies.

The programme is well structured in the fact we rotate and have apprenticeship catch ups and forums. However, the element of choosing our departments isn't as organised. We are usually placed into the teams where there is business need. This means many apprentices are placed in teams they would not like to be trying.

I receive a lot of support from my employer and whenever a problem arises it is dealt with. My performance manager is always on hand to have a meeting if I need to discuss anything. They also understand that we have studies along with work and they accommodate for this greatly.

My training provider is always available via email if I ever have any questions regarding my coursework. However at the start of the programme BPP seemed unsure on the course which made things confusing. The support is now excellent and I feel supported throughout the programme and in my studies.

I think my qualification has helped me to an extent as I am able to show which skills I have developed and therefore I can understand my weaknesses and therefore work to improve on these. However, as most of our qualification is based on topics we have already completed in our role it leaves little room for new development.

I know that there are lots of societies which apprentices can get involved in (however I am not in any). We have monthly forums which is a chance for all apprentices from across the UK to come together and work on a project. This gives us the chance to network with apprentices which we wouldn't usually.

Yes

I would recommended KPMG to a friend because of the support I have received at KPMG. All of the teams I have worked with treat me with respect and value my work. They really want to see you improve and do well which is a great environment to learn in. Opportunities are also given to apprentices all the time which allow us to grow and learn new things. I have also made invaluable connections and friends whilst on the apprenticeship which has made my experience even more enjoyable.

The advice I would give to others applying to KPMG is that to ensure you are really motivated to work in this industry. I would also advise those who join to take every opportunity given to them even though it may be scary coming straight from 6th form but it helps you to grow and succeed.