KBS Apprentice Review

I work with 3 other team members to split out the business as usual tasks. The tasks vary on a day to day basis but usually involve looking into queries from other teams at KPMG and helping them to resolve any issues with the HR systems. I work with senior team members to resolve more challenging queries.

I have learnt a number of new skills, such as my knowledge of firm wide systems and the back end side of them to see how they work. I have taken part in training online to develop existing skills such as Excel skills and verbal communication / presentation skills. There is lots of training available to all employees to help improve your skills.

I have recently finished my apprenticeship programme but I thoroughly enjoyed it. It helped me to build a number of skills and I got to meet and network with a variety of people. It has given me a great opportunity to get work experience and an understanding of how a global company works.

The programme was well structured given the situation with COVID19. The programme was supposed to be rotational with me going into 4 different teams for 2 years, however due to the pandemic the firm had to adapt this and make it so that I stayed in my first rotation for 1 year instead of moving teams.

KPMG provides lots of support to its employees. We were given a coach from BPP who helped us with any challenges we faced whilst doing the qualification. We also had a Performance Manager who we could turn to for any issues at work. We could also speak to our team members and they would provide support if needed.

The training provider provides lots of support. We had frequent calls with our coach from college every 6-8 weeks where they would check in on how we are doing at work, as well as how we are progressing within the qualification to ensure we were on track to get the qualification on time.

My qualification helped me to understand how businesses work and some of the functions that each company generally has. I was able to learn about project management techniques which I have been able to apply whilst in my role. My qualification helped me to develop a number of skills, such as presentation skills which have been helpful whilst in my role.

I haven't really been involved much with any extra-curricular activities but there are several with KPMG offers. There are different networks, for example women within KPMG and a parenting network where people can meet like minded people. There are virtual chats with different communities, for example a virtual apprenticeship lounge where apprentices can talk to eachother.

Yes

KPMG is a very respectable and well known company so it looks good on your CV. Everyone is very welcoming and helpful so there is always someone you can turn to for advise about anything. The benefits at KPMG are very good and they pay a good salary, along with bonuses at the end of every year.

I would say to make sure you research the company a lot before you apply and have an interview as it shows you know what you are talking about and you definitely want to work for the company. Look into the different apprenticeship schemes as they are very different from eachother and will lead you down different routes in your career.