Flying Start Degree programme - FS2 Leeds Review

In audit we are responsible for an independent inspection of company's financial statements, as an associate we are responsible for carrying out much of the test of details work which includes sampling supporting documentation such as invoices and matching these to listings provided to gain comfort over the information provided to us

This is my second placement, therefore more responsibility has been placed on me in terms of the line items that I am auditing. We have also had the opportunity to step into a coaching role so that we might pass on our knowledge we have acquired in previous years and share this with more junior members of staff

The programme is enjoyable as it gives us an opportunity for paid, practical working experience and allows us to apply what we are learning in our studies to every day life. It is also a unique structure to partly working and part university life which allows us to enjoy the best of both learning types

The programme is extremely well organised, from induction to mid-programme checkups I feel there is a clear structure and excellent support systems in place. All of the resources for kick off meetings and introductions as well as mandatory training are clearly well designed and effectively communicated both at the beginning and throughout my placement

I have personally not felt the need for any support, however there are extensive support options available and I feel these are readily available and easily approachable for me should they ever be required. Our support network consists of: personal tutor (university), PwC liaison, career coach, assigned buddy, nominated on the job coaches and 'champions' who specialise in certain areas

Similar to the previous question, there is extensive support available on all levels of the business. This ranges from something as simple as assigning a buddy for informal chatting and settling in to career coaches and 'champions' for specific areas where help or guidance is required. Most queries can be easily resolved by communicating with assigned career coaches however they are able to efficiently redirect their queried if they do not immediately know the answer to something

The training helps as it would be difficult to perform my role in audit without a basic understanding of the areas that I am auditing. It is a great opportunity to put into practice all of the skills that we have been learning and apply them to a real-life scenario. Our knowledge of accounting definitely helps every day for the work we are expected to perform

Although it is difficult in the current climate (i.e. multiple national lockdowns) I feel the firm has done a good job at organising responsible social interactions such as multiple quizzes, virtual takeaways and team events over video calls. There is also many networking events held online and all staff are encouraged to join in

Yes

Because they promote excellence in everything they do and it feels that at all levels of the business people are actively interested in helping to develop one anothers careers. They have done a good job at ensuring all of their employees feel valued and respected and they are supporting the learning of their students

I would advise making sure you have strong social skills before applying, this is because you will need to maintain regular communication with both members of your team (at all levels from peer all the way to engagement leeder) as well as good communication with personel from the client's side