Flying Start Degree Programme- Leeds Review

I had allocated clients each week that I worked on with an audit team. Each client provided me with different range of skills and knowledge which made me develop a better understanding of what an accountant job looks like. For this placement I have mainly worked on testing controls and analytical procedures. This has evolved my understanding for audits. Also, I have learnt how to work effectively in a team and how important this is in a working environment.

I have learnt various new skills and developed my skills further. I have worked in lots of new IT programmes which has allowed me to expand my technology understanding and become more familiar with Excel. I have improved my teamwork skills and understood the high importance of it in Audit. Additionally, my communication skills have been significantly improved as effective communication with clients is essential. Finally, I have expanded my network which will enable me to have greater contacts going into the future.

I had a greater experience and I really enjoyed the programme. I think this was a great opportunity for me to start off my career in Audit and to gain a better understanding of what Audit work entails. The company has many amazing employees which are so willing to help each other out, when I was struggling with any of the tasks assigned to me, people were going out of their way to explain everything.

The programme is very well structured. In the first year of the degree we were studying at University and in the second year I had my 1 placement with PwC. I think this was a very good approach as I was able to put into practice what I have learnt in my first year of the degree. This experience has showed me that audit field is something that I would like to pursue in the future.

I have received high amount of support from the day I have started. PwC has assigned us with Career Coaches and Support Buddies. I had weekly meetings with them to discuss my progress and how I felt. This has been very useful as it also allowed me to look back on my progress and what I have learnt. Everyone that was mentoring me has been so supportive and went out of their way to help.

My training providers are ICAEW and my University have been very supportive. ICAEW provides us with material to study for the exams and gives us an online platform to feel part of the community. This was very helpful as it allows us to study from books which are specific for the exam. My University has also supported me to work towards my qualification. The University has provided us with tutors that we have meetings with to check our progress.

This placement has allowed me to up the theory that I have learnt in the first year of my degree into practice now during the placement. I think this was very helpful for my to develop my further understanding of the audit. I think this enabled me to gain more knowledge from the inside of the company and really see what the working environment its like in my job role. Also, it gave me more knowledge about various different clients and industries.

The company has so many social events that you can get involved with. I think it was really nice that the company even during the pandemic has managed to run events online through google chat. The company has Wednesday night social every week and various other quizzes. They even hold a new joiners quiz for people to get to know each other which I believe is very important especially nowadays where you cannot just go into the office and meet others.

Yes

This company has really supported me all the way through my first year and during my placement. This experience has really showed me that audit is something I would love to do in a future and PwC has given me this amazing opportunity to expand my knowledge with them. The people that work in PwC are very supportive, friendly and helpful. I believe you cannot find this anywhere else therefore, I would 100% recommend PwC for anyone because it's not just a company it's a community with endless opportunities for young people.

I think the best tip is probably to not be too nervous and just be your authentic self. That's because PwC in my opinion has so many amazing employees but everyone is so unique and different. Therefore, being your true self is the best advice for the interview and assessment process as you will only be able to work, learn and pursue your career if you feel happy within it. Also, having unique set of skills allows everyone to work together and add their bit to the job.