Flying Start Degree Programme - FS2 - Edinburgh Review

As a Flying Start, we communicate with senior associates or managers on the team who set our tasks, help with any queries we have and then review our work once complete. Daily tasks depend on which stage the job is at, such as planning, testing and then completion, and can involve the likes of communicating with the client or other teams within the firm. I tend to work on funds clients which are often PwC office based.

I have developed my communication skills this placement, by working on a job that was at a client site therefore involved face to face communication rather than just emailing. This was necessary for the job as it was in a sector that I had no experience of before, and required a lot of communication with the client. My understanding of the updated software we use has also developed through pre-placement training and placement itself.

I enjoy my programme as it gives a good balance between university life and preparation for full time work after graduation. It is a good opportunity to meet new people and develop skills such as team working and communication. I enjoy having three shorter placements rather than one placement year as I think this would be more difficult to adjust to.

The programme is well organised and the structure is set out from before we start so we know what to expect in each year of the degree. There are a number of different teams we can contact if necessary for support, and there seems to be good communication between the university and PwC.

There are a number of different support groups from the employer, including people managers and office champions whilst we are on placement, and a team that works with the university. I have found that the best support whilst on placement comes from people we work with in our offices who have already graduated from the programme, as they have the best understanding of our situation.

University tutors can be very helpful, always offer plenty of support for everyone, and keep in touch with the likes of exam information even when we are on placement. Our course director is very supportive, keeps us updated on the programme throughout the year and I would feel extremely comfortable going to her with any issues. We also have personal tutors who keep in contact throughout the year, including whilst on placement.

It was very helpful to have already taken some of the exams before our first placement, as you then have a basic understanding of some areas when you start working. However, due to mainly working on fund-specific jobs, which is not covered in the syllabus, the qualification only really helps to give a general understanding at the start. I have found that you learn most of the things that help you perform better in your role whilst actually working on different jobs.

There are lots of social events and sports teams from the office that meet regularly and are available for anyone to join in with. On occasions, there are also social events where teams meet to celebrate completing a job. Whilst on placement, everyone across the three year groups from university and also those who have already graduated tend to socialise a lot together as well.

Yes

I think this course is a good opportunity to be able to experience both university life and full-time work. I prefer the idea of three smaller placements rather than a whole year out of university, and it is a chance to experience living in a new city with new people.

I would recommend having some understanding of the company and the job you are going into, and having confidence in yourself and your abilities when it comes to interviews and group assessments. Be willing to work as part of a team and don't be afraid to ask any questions.