Trainee Audit Associate Review

In my role I work on a range of clients varying by both size and sector. I complete tests on both balance sheet and P&L items within the financial statements. I complete re-calculations/proof in totals, sample testing, board minute reviews, accounts reviews and much else. I am continuously communicating with clients via emails, video calls, and information request platforms; as well as the audit team and department team. As I become more experienced I have heavily increased my responsibility in coaching, teaching and helping the new joiners.

I have developed many skills including my communication with both internal staff and clients of the firm. You learn how to communicate effectively and efficiently with a wide range of people and in different scenarios. I have also learnt how to be professionally sceptical and how to analyse financial information. In addition, I have developed in great depth team work skills by working with a variety of levels of experience. There is many opportunities for internal training on both technical matters and general skills. I am in the process of completing my ACA qualification.

The whole team is extremely friendly and willing to help. There is a strong culture for developing apprentices and being a training firm. There is constant opportunities to get involved in more and varying work. The work can be pressurised and intense at times but help is recognised and appreciated as a whole.

There is a large amount of internal support within the team to offer coaching and development opportunities. We are all assigned a buddy/mentor (in the apprentice year above) as well as a qualified appraiser. It is encouraged to have regular catch ups with these people to communicate any issues or further support needed. At times proactivity is needed in order to understand the structure of the apprenticeship requirements.

There is a huge level of internal support from all aspects of the department. There is a great culture internally to ensure people not only complete their work but learn how to improve and understand the reasoning behind the task. It is constantly reminded within the team to ask for help if needed whether in terms of a high workload, lacking support from a senior or general understanding of technical issues.

The training provider, First Intuition, is supportive in terms of general development as well as exams. We have quarterly catch ups with an FI staff member to evaluate what we have achieved in the past few months, what skill shave developed and why, and what we would like to achieve in the coming months. In terms of exams, FI offer pre-exam calls, tuition course, revision course and evening revision sessions. They also ensure on their online platform that there is mock exams, practice questions and tuition videos.

I am completing the ACA qualification. All of the exams have an aspect of ethics in which is required in your da to day role. Due to working in audit, some exams are more useful on a day-to-day basis (for example accounting, assurance, FAR, AA) n applying knowledge and gaining a more in depth understanding of the work being completed. I would greatly say that I understand my role and industry more after competing exams.

There is many extra-curricular activities. There is both team and department socials every few months in which there is an activity followed by a chance to socialise. There is great emphasis on doing a social in early September following the arrival of the new apprentice year to introduce them to the firm. In addition, there is opportunities in terms of sport, e.g. netball, to get involved in on a weekly basis.

Yes

The culture within the department is to recognise that apprentices need support and their development up the levels is highly important. The department is extremely social and has great emphasis on getting people involved in socials and events. Overall, TS&W has a friendly, approachable and inviting culture.

I would ensure that you are well prepared for the interviews and assessment day in terms of your interest in the department and firm. I would be prepared for hard work and ensuring you have an attitude that is willing to help, learn and make compromises. I would make sure to get involved within both your team and department.