Audit Assistant Review

On a daily basis, I prepare Pensions work papers and liaise with clients to obtain relevant information that will assist in completing the pensions audit. I also reach out to pensions administrators, fund managers and actuaries in order to obtain relevant documentation that will allow the audit team to understand the calculations behind the DBO balance within the financial statements.

I have learnt a variety of new skills such as communication and confidence when addressing a group. I have learnt how to manage my time more efficiently as well as the importance of planning. I also believe my concentration and focus has also increased and am no longer affected by distractions.

I really enjoy my programme, not only because of the people that I have met and work with on a daily basis but due to the interesting audit engagements I have been fortunate to work on. Despite the work and study being slightly tough to juggle at times, there is plenty of support available which increases my confidence.

There have been some occasions in the past where I have felt the programme has not been as structured as I wished for it to be. For example, there were some issues with the exam dates and tuition leave but this was resolved in a timely manner. Overall, the programme is structured to an adequate level.

The support from my employer is second to none. Despite the work not always being relevant to the exams, the support I receive from my employer is always helpful. This includes days off for study, revision guides and also plenty of coaching, both on the job and off the job, which I find really helpful.

BPP are very helpful when it comes to providing training - there are many avenues which apprentices can explore in order to revise such as the out of hours forum through which we can contact the tutor for any difficulties we are facing. Also, the training sessions and study materials are extremely helpful.

I believe the work I complete and the course I am studying do not always overlap. The department I am in is quite niche whereas the study materials are quite generic so it does not provide me with direct coaching. However, with aspects such as ethics and integrity, my qualification does help in being a better employee.

Yes - there are many events and activities that take place which I am a part of. There are sports teams and also 5 a side football tournaments that take place on a regular basis with all proceeds going to the sponsoring charity. There are also events such as team building days which are effective in networking and getting to know the team on a slightly less formal basis.

Yes

KPMG is part of the Big 4 which speaks volumes - it is a reputable firm that strongly holds on to its core values and these are seen at the firm on a daily basis. There is plenty of support available and you would not feel left alone at KPMG. I would definitely recommend KPMG to a friend.

Working at KPMG can potentially be seen as the highest corporate environment in the business/accounting world. Therefore, it would require you to be independent and use your own initiative at times in order to solve problems. My advice would be to always think on your feet and be yourself as that will allow you to tackle problems in a more efficient manner.