Trainee Associate (Audit/Data Analytics) Review

I work 6 months in the Audit department and 6 months in the Data Analytics department. In Audit, the typical day differs depending on which stage of the Audit the team is on. Whereas in the Analytics team, the general processes are the same however the tasks are done for different Audit clients.

My general IT knowledge has significantly improved. Within Audit, Microsoft excel is predominantly used whereas in Analytics there are a number of programmes and software utilised daily - these I had never used before so I acquired new skills while learning to se these programmes. I developed confidence when speaking to clients as I had never done this in a professional situation before.

I enjoy my programme as I have learnt a lot in the past year and a half that I have been at EY. I like being a part of different teams which has increased my network. Also, the 20% learning side of the degree apprenticeship breaks up the course well.

The programme is 20% study - so 4 days a week I am working and 1 day is dedicated to study. The modules are split up well as there are 10 weeks dedicated to each module. The 6 month Audit/Data Analytics split is also very well structured however I am looking forward to choosing one discipline during the final year of the degree programme.

There is lots of support from the employer- there are different teams dedicated to wellbeing/apprenticeship support/mental health/physical needs support etc. Each employee is assigned a 'buddy' from the year above who is working in the same department as well as a counsellor who oversees any difficulties or queries an individual has.

Each apprentice is assigned a skills coach from the apprenticeship provider (QA Limited). The skills coach arranges calls with each individual every few months to discuss progress and general queries. It is also possible to contact the skills coach as and when we need them. The tutors also provide module specific support in the form of office hours calls weekly during the 10 week module.

There is a slight overlap between the apprenticeship learning modules and my role at EY however the Analytics done at EY is so specific to the audit processes we carry out, so the qualification doesn't assist much in helping to perform better in my role. In an ideal world, if the degree was a combined accounting/technology course, it would be much better suited.

There are a number of extra curricular EY networks open to all ranging from women's networks to religious networks. There are also many social events within teams as well as company wide events and activities. I would say that at least once a week there is something to get involved in even if you are not a part of a network.

Yes

There are many departments at EY, it is just a matter of finding your most preferred niche area but once you have gained experience across sectors, it is easy to decide on an area that you excel in/enjoy the most. The extra curricular events and activities are also a huge selling point for EY.

Try to research the different service lines before picking and applying to one. It is possible to change service lines however it will make things much easier if you start at EY in the department that you have most interest in. The application process is time consuming but it is definitely worth all the time spent preparing.