Flying Start Degree Programme- FS3, Newcastle Review

I work within the audit and assurance sector. A typical day involves working in a small team ranging from around 2-7 people. Our task is to perform the statutory audit of companies falling within the category of needing a statutory audit by law. A an associate I am responsible for testing over less complex areas such as cash, PPE, accounts receivable, accounts payable. Many audits are performed on the clients place of work therefore the job involves moving around a lot however there is opportunity to work from the base office which is in Newcastle city centre.

I have developed many skills, mainly being my communication skills because you interact with different people on a weekly basis as you move around to the difference clients, this provides ample opportunities to develop your interpersonal and communications skills. All of our testing is performed mainly over excel therefore my excel skills have widened massively and I am now able to perform complex excel functions.

I really enjoy being part of the 'flying start degree' there is lots of opportunity to meet new people as a result of completing 3 placements during the 4 years at university. It is a fast paced course and allows to qualify as a chartered accountant in a shorter time period than any other course.

The course it very well organised allowing your skills to be tested as you progress throughout the years. The modules are well taught and complement your placement as the content you learn in your university modules is very useful when on placement and therefore helps you to be better at your job. Although it is challenging it is rewarding to have completed the ICAEW exams whilst studying at university.

When you begin placement you are assigned a flying start champion who is an ex-flying start student, they are there to assist you and answer any questions you may want to ask. PWC also assign you a buddy during your placement who is there to support you therefore a wide range of people who are available to assist you if needed.

There is lots of support at university, the module leaders are always offering their support along with the degree programme director. You are also assigned a personal tutor whilst at university who is always available for face to meetings over even over email who is there to help you and answer any questions you may have.

It helps significantly, all of the modules delivered at university are designed to complement the job role. For example, accounting and finance module massively helps my job role as I can use my knowledge which I have learned from university to help me at work. You also learn new skills whilst at university such as presentation skills and this helps to improve my confidence when approaching clients at work

There are lots of activities to take part in. Every couple of months there is an assurance social whereby all of the employees within assurance partake in a fun activity such as bowling, pub quiz and it is a lovely time for everyone to be together and have fun. There is also a social committee if you want to join that and then you can get involved in organising the social events for the office.

Yes

It is a friendly working environment, they offer lots of support and it is a fantastic qualification. It allows you to get your foot in the door and be exposed to a wide range of clients from manufacturing to banking to retail to construction. There is a wide range of clients and if you are interested in working for a specific industry or client PWC always try and cater to your needs.

Be confident and have passion, PWC are looking for a broad range of individuals to join the team, whereby not one person is the same in the office, we all have our own personalities therefore it is important to stand out. Take note of PWC's policies and be ready to talk about these with ease.