finance assistant Review

Monday to Thursday I am involved with labour costs and hours, I also help with the project bank accounts. I do this for all of our south east projects and it really helps to expand on my knowledge. I sometimes submit requisitions for our site for things such as gloves, boots and bottled water. Friday i then take my course for AAT book keeping. It is a good course to get basic knowledge of accounts and book keeping however, it is quite challenging.

I have learnt many new skills. Before i joined Balfour Beatty i had completed English based A levels and had no knowledge of finance and accounting however, Balfour Beatty have given me a lot of responsibility and this has helped me gain a lot of confidence within the finance sector.

I really enjoy working with my supportive co workers and gaining a lot of knowledge. We also carry out volunteering days to give back to society and this is really regarding and fun to network. Day to day i enjoy my job and enjoy a mix of working from home and being in the office. However, i did underestimate how hard it is to balance college work one day a week and then work four days a week.

it is well structed team wise. my team are extremely supportive however i feel the studying is difficult to keep up with one day a week. I am aware some firms make apprentices take two week leave and do an intense course and take an exam at the end of the course to avoid any forgetfulness with the course. i believe this would be more beneficial as I struggle to study one day a week and then trying to remember what i did the week before. Also i believe Balfour Beatty should choose a different training provider as Kaplan are very unorganised, confusing and sometimes even rude. However, at my actual work place my team are very supportive and i get a lot of training,

I receive a lot of support from my employer with anything. Work is always explained properly and i can always ask if i have an issue. overall they are great with support in everything and will always make an effort to check im happy. however again lack of support within college as once i have failed my first exam i am expected to pay for the retakes. which i can understand if you have an employee that isnt trying however, it is disheartening as a student and apprentice to fail an exam then be expected to pay for your retake when you don't get paid a lot anyway. I also do believe that all apprentices in balfour beatty have a lot of responsibility for what they get paid.

My direct line manager is extremely supportive and always asks if there is anything she can do. She attends all my college meetings and makes sure she knows what i am handing in like my portfolio. my direct company support is great but the wider picture not much support however again lack of support within college as once i have failed my first exam i am expected to pay for the retakes. which i can understand if you have an employee that isn't trying however, it is disheartening as a student and apprentice to fail an exam then be expected to pay for your retake when you don't get paid a lot anyway.

My college course sometimes relates to my work but only the Debit and Credit side. there isn't too many similarities. If i didnt have to take the course to have my apprenticeship i wouldn't it is the only part of my job i dont really enjoy, it gives me extra anxiety it my life

I have been on company meals before with my team for Christmas that work pay for which is really lovely to get to know your team in a social setting. also had two work parties. On top of that i also do a lot of volunteering which i thoroughly enjoy.

Yes

I would recommend Balfour Beatty as I believe they give you a lot of opportunities. However, i think people should be aware of the course alongside the job as it can be. stressful balancing everything. Overall though it is a good experience and allows you to gain work experience and a qualification while getting paid.

Be aware of the course you are enrolling on. Will you really enjoy it? Are you ready for the commitment of studying? Be yourself! Try to get involved with as much volunteering as possible its a great way to network and give back to the community. Be honest with your employer about your weaknesses and if you are feeling overloaded at work