Audit associate Review

by EY

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

9.5/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

Taking part in audits of companies within the wealth & asset management sector, with the help of staff within the company more senior than me. Alongside this, I also attend college to study for my degree, and complete the required exams.

10/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I feel my sift skills have developed strongly - being on large audit teams and having regular meetings means that I have needed to become more confident in order to get my voice heard. I have already completed the first of 15 of my exams - and have learnt a lot about the audit profession already which I continue to use.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I have really enjoyed my programme - although have found working entirely from home quite difficult as I was looking forward to the socialising aspect of my job, although obviously this is through no fault of my employer.

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Very well organised - I am given days off for college and exams, which are booked in advance for me.

10/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

My employer has supported me whenever I have had difficulties, whether this be through my work, or retaking exams etc. We are provided with buddies, mentors and counsellors.

10/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

Although I feel I have been given the best start by my employer, my training provider isn't as well organised, or as supportive when I'm faced with difficulties such as exams etc.

6/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

The qualification is directly linked to my role in the workplace, and I use the skills which I learn from the qualification on in my role on an everyday basis.

10/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

Due to Covid these haven't been able to take place, however I imagine there will be plenty once they are allowed again.

10/10

9a. Would you recommend EY to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Because I feel my experience so far will be invaluable for my future career. Not only will I obtain a degree, but I will also have five years experience which those of my peers who went to University will not.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to EY?

Apply early and stick with it - there are a lot of stages but it will be worth it, even if you don't get an offer the experience will be useful. Another point to add is that there are times it is very hard work and long hours which I don't think I was really aware of, and although I've enjoyed it this should be something you consider.