Digital Apprentice (Staff/Assistant) Review

Daily I will speak work with audit teams to provide services using data analytics. This is done through the analysis of client data and the use of automation to generate workpapers to review the movement of client funds and transaction's to confirm all is in line with our expectations and no risk of fraud

As part of the digital apprentice scheme my skills in programming have improved through the various online lectures and assignments given to us. My organization and communications skills have also improved due to the role of them in the business world. Finally due to the various training opportunities provided by EY I can chose various skills and behaviors to improve.

The program does not completely live up to expectation as of yet, there are important details missed out that effect the role massively. First of the impact of busy season (January and April year end clients) is not highlighted until the last minute or through discussion with collogues. It is expected to work much longer hours than normal (can be upwards of 9-10 hours a day and weekends). Secondly the work can be very repetitive which is both good and bad as it is easily to learn but can be somewhat unenjoyable at time.

In the first year the program was not well structured at all and it was unclear what exactly was going on and the training was honestly bad and not useful at all. However the team and higher ups have listened to feedback and the course has changed. We now focus more on the data analytics side of things and we have changed training provider from QA to BPP which has streamlined the course much more.

There is a good level of support as there are regular check ins with a designated counsellor for each apprentice, this is a good opportunity to talk about any issues in the work place or any problems you are facing that you want to talk about. The general attitude is around supporting the apprentices but some higher up mangers and seniors can be somewhat ignorant and not care about this.

I have only been with BPP for a short while but we receive regular emails and calls with them to go over any issues and support as part of the qualification. The skills coach provided by BPP has been great so far and has provided a decent level of support and help.

There has not been a great level in relevance from the learnings and assignments from BPP and our previous provider QA, I also do not see it becoming more relevant over time as I do not feel I have learned more about my indistry or role and have not put much theory into practice yet.

There are many extra curricular activities as part of work to get involved in. There are multiple social events such as quiz nights and drinks. Being located in Birmingham close to the city center is often we can go out after work or during lunch for a meal and socialize. There are also online networking events to take part of and talk with people from other offices

No

From my talks with other collogues and those who have been there for longer than me many people tend to leave after getting qualified and find a job else where. The hours are not always great especially during busy season. The work is not the most enjoyable and the audit teams can sometimes be stressful to work with.

Make sure to research the company and your role before applying to confirm it is a good fit and matches all expectations. There are certain skills and knowledge that would be useful such as tools in excel and a basic understanding of accounting and audit. Ensure business skills and behaviors are to a high standard.