Flying Start Associate Review

In an associate role, you complete basic to slightly more advanced audit work in areas such as PPE, cash, accruals, salaries, etc. An audit involves various stages that you will be involved with, including: planning and walkthroughs with the client, test of details, controls testing and documentation, statutory accounts reporting, completion.

I have learned a great deal about accounting and finance that a normal degree would not provide me with exposure to. These include but are not limited to: how to build client relations and manage stakeholder expectations, communication and relationship skills, technical skills, completing audit work compliant with regulations and how to apply accounting standards.

Although the degree is challenging due to the steep learning curve of completing ICAEW exams alongside university, I have enjoyed the challenge and learn new things everyday. I enjoy the university aspect as well as the working aspect and being able to earn whilst still a student and working towards completing my degree.

This degree programme is offered at Nottingham, Newcastle and Reading University. There have been a number of cohorts and it is well organised in terms of the number of ICAEW exams you will complete by the end of it. The programme could benefit by improving the level of training provided to Flying Start associates, given this is all 'on the job' training.

Working directly within audit teams allows you to get a great deal of support from senior team members. Most seniors understand you are still a placement student and provide additional support as needed. As we are all assigned 'career coaches' you are able to easily get additional support when needed in time management, pastoral care, etc.

As a member of PwC studying towards the ICAEW ACA qualification, you will receive ICAEW textbooks with many practice questions in exam style that are extremely helpful in revision as well as study time at college for the final exams. In addition, when completing some exams at university, you will receive similar learning styles within lectures and seminars.

The ICAEW ACA qualification involves regulated exams which provide you with the basis for understanding the nature of audit testing and what is required as well as knowledge in tax, business law, corporate finance, hedging, etc. This programme means you will have this knowledge going forward and is helpful when working within the role.

At the Milton Keynes office, althought it is a smaller office, it is more social and interactive. There is a social society in which you can help to organise events, Monday Night Football, month-end drinks and a number of different events throughout the calendar year as a new joiner, to get in involved.

Yes

PwC has a well structured degree tailored to training individuals and providing them with the necessary tools and qualifications to progress within a career in accounting. The ICAEW qualification is renowned and extremely beneficial when pursuing future careers in similar disciplines. PwC also has a graduate programme which offers the same qualification.

I would advise to research about audit and what this entails to understand the nature of the role you are applying for. I would also recommend you get into contact with other students on this programme, for example via linkedin to learn about their experiences and their point of view