Digital Apprentice Review

The specialism I chose is data analysis so I work in a specialised data analytics team. I cleanse and prepare data to get it ready for analysis. This includes using Excel and Alteryx to format data correctly and do preliminary checks on it. The aim is to get all data uniform no matter how it came to us so that it can be analysed.

I have significantly improved my Excel skills - I can use many more formulas comfortably than I used to be able to. I never used Alteryx before joining EY so it has been interesting to learn that - it builds on my pre-existing programming skills which made it easier to come to terms with.

I really enjoy my programme. There are always opportunities to improve myself with online training that is accessible any time and work experience opportunities in other areas of the business. We have a lot of support if we ever need help getting to know other areas of the business. The university modules are closely linked to what we do at work so it all feels more cohesive.

There is a well organised, structured plan for this programme. It has been made clear to us how the programme will work. For example, we know all of our study leave for the academic year so we can plan our time accordingly. We also know when we will be doing each module so we have time to prepare beforehand.

We have multiple support channels so there is always someone available. For most queries, I go to my buddies (digital apprentices who are in the year above me). If I have a more formal problem or want to talk to someone other than my buddies about something, I have my counsellor (line manager) who also arranges regular check-ins to support progression.

The support from our training provider is good. We have forums for each module so we can ask any general questions. We also have a coach who we can contact if we need extra advice. Our coach is also responsible for holding regular catch-up calls to check progress in our qualifications and that we are on track to meet all of the apprenticeship standards.

Our qualification through our training provider is linked closely to our role. All coursework has a workplace element where we tie what we've learnt in the module to our workplace and explain how it could be implemented. This means we must investigate how our company currently operates so we network with others to find out this information. The modules also give us insight into how EY operates so we are more aware which allows us to progress.

There are many extra-curricular activities at EY. For example, there is netball and football at our office. There are also firm-wide networks such as Women in Technology who host seminars. All new joiners are also in a network together and this network hosts seminars and events for us all to get to know more people in the business as we stay in this network for around 4 years.

Yes

There are so many career opportunities with EY. Most areas that you could want to go into are available through EY. There is a lot of support for progression and recognition for those who are doing good work. There is a good social side to EY as well with regular scheduled events as well as the office going out after work.

You should be yourself and show your passions when applying. Being aware of current events and technological improvements will help you in your interviews as they will expect you to understand how the business could be affected by those. Do some background research into EY and specifically what your service line does as tying these into your interview will show you have spent time preparing.