Flying Start Degree programme - AS1, Reading Review

I worked as an Assurance in the Assurance department in the Reading office. My daily tasks involving updating the client tracker, selecting samples, talking to the client regarding the evidence received. Before selecting samples, I have to discuss the testing approach with my team, sampling method and risk analysis for that area.

My role has allowed me to learn new skills and develop existing skills. I have developed my problem solving, attention to detail, professionalism, interpersonal skills and improved my ability to work under deadlines and pressure. Attention to detail is the skill I have been able to most improve given the nature of audit. I have also started building leadership skills by helping junior members of the team.

I enjoy my programme to a large extent and am grateful to have the opportunity to gain experience in the workplace while being a university student. I have felt supported by my colleagues and felt included in the audit teams which I was a part of. I have also learnt many transferable skills.

The programme is 4 years long and we have placements for 3 months in Years 2 and 3 and 5 months in Year 4. The programme is very well structured for individuals who want to experience both university student life and professional work life. It is a fast track course.

The support we receive from PwC is immense, and very much appreciated. There are many channels of support available to us. These include our career coach, flying start champions, buddies, programme manager and our peer group. We have one-to-one meetings with our career coach and programme manager during which we can raise issues and fears.

We receive adequate support from our training provider when working towards our qualification. There is a advisor available if we face issues and a helpline which is also useful to discuss problems. ICAEW are quick to respond to emails and the general attitude towards supporting us is very supportive and encouraging.

Throughout the year, ICAEW conducts a wide range of workshops in order to develop our professional skills. They also conducts seminars for excel as well as provide an overview of the new and revised audit standards. This helps in the application of such standards during our work life. Furthermore, the university conducts various professional development courses to brush our vocational skills

Yes, PwC does conduct a range of social events. Every week the team conducts social activities in order to lighten the mood. Additionally PwC hosts a range of sports activities throughout the week. There are cash rewards which incentivise people to exercise. These activities also allow networking as you meet more people.

Yes

Because of the work environment and reputation of the firm. As a firm in the Big 4, experience at PwC would be beneficial to their career and allow them to gain transferable skills for the future. Also colleagues at PwC are generally very warm, friendly and welcoming which makes the experience much better!

Be honest in your application and during the interview. Don't worry or stress about the interview, the interview just wants to get to know you. Before the interview, reflect on the experiences you have had in the past and what skills you have learnt from them. During the assessment day, just be yourself!