Accounts Assitant Review

Accounts preparation - this includes reviewing client's records and putting together working papers to confirm the client's figures, the level of analysis depends on the client in question and the scope of the work. This information is then used to prepare financial statements. Administrative tasks that track progress are also performed.

Yes - I have learnt a lot of new skills, for example I can now apply the principles of bookkeeping, I can communicate professionally and use softwares I did not know existed beforehand. I am more efficient with Excel and my accuracy has increased greatly with fewer points arising from my reviews.

I find the programme stretching and challenging. There are a wide variety of jobs and some jobs I enjoy working on more than others. I am also exposed to a wide range of managers who have different styles - this adds some diversity to my work and helps me keep engaged.

The programme is well-structured, however as the employee I am expected to take ownership of my own career path and ensure I am sufficiently challenged and can progress. This autonomy can be an advantage as I can influence to a certain extent the work I do and what I am exposed to.

I receive a lot of support from all my colleagues and most managers are also very happy to help. Despite the lockdown Microsoft Teams has been used extensively to keep in contact and ask for help. Days in college are provided within working hours, but revision for exams is done in my own time.

BPP provides a lot of learning support, a large number of practise assessments and exam questions. At times it can be difficult to cover the whole course in the college days provided and more time could be spent on preparing each exam, but overall I am well supported and the tutors are helpful.

The qualification I am studying and the role I am training in are very interlinked and it is very helpful to be able to apply the knowledge almost immediately because it is so relevant. Some modules for example management accounting are more for in house accountants however, but this might be helpful in future roles.

There are certainly a large number of extra-curriculars, for example the firm facilitates the Duke of Edinburgh certificate and organises numerous social activities (though this has been slightly impeded by the social restrictions that are in place due to Covid RSM has still organised a number of social events virtually)

Yes

RSM offers a good training programme, a good salary compared to other apprenticeships and a lot of support because RSM is a training firm which makes it easy for new joiners to learn quickly, adapt to the new role and grow professionally. There are also possibilities for us to diversify into other roles.

I would suggest to start early - as close to when applications open as possible to give yourself the best chance of success as you will have plenty of time to prepare for the interview and and perform each of the steps in the application process without this interfering with your study.