Flying Start Degree Programme - Associate (Manchester) Review

by PwC

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.5/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I worked as an associate in assurance. The assurance sector is involved in providing audit services to various companies around the world. We test items from the company's financial statements. We procure confirmations from the client as well as third parties as evidence to conclude on the company's financial statements being true and fair

8/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I learned the skill of managing my time effectively. I worked on more than 3 clients on most days. Working on so many jobs without hampering the quality of my work was a challenge to get used to. Also, I was able to improve my communication as analytical skills as well.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I appreciate that I performed work which was meaningful and that I contributed to the audit file. I worked on compex bits of the job which made confident and added to my knowledge level. I enjoyed working full time, interacting with different people.

7/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Having worked here for a couple of months, I felt that the people make an effort each day to make the lives of employees easier and hassle-free. There is great focus on planning for tasks, effective execution as well seeking feedback to avoid any issues faced previously. The IT infrastructure is robust too and adds to a great work experience

9/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

There were many people around to speak to on work matters and non-work matters. We were assigned a buddy and a career coach. They were approachable and we could go to them for any issue or concern. Also we had flying start champions who sent constant reminders on upcoming tasks as well get in touch with us on a regular basis to ensure our wellbeing.

10/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

The university as well as ICAEW have provided prompt support. I can email my lecturers to seek help on queries in topics that are unclear to me. Our programme director is in constant communication with us providing updates on ICAEW announcements as well as any university related matters.

10/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

Support from the university and ICAEW makes it convenient and less stressful as a student. All systems and processes are well structured and easy to use.

9/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

We had socials and meet-ups occasionally.

6/10

9a. Would you recommend PwC to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

The employer provides the right space for learning and development. There numerous online and offline training platforms to enhance our level of knowledge about respective areas. There our people around to consult and communicate with.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to PwC?

Read the job description carefully to ensure you are applying to the role suitable to you. Be sure of the location you want to work at since the atmosphere can add greatly to the work experience.