Tax Associate Review

Assisting clients with their tax affairs. Being point of contact between client, HMRC, and other teams in order to bring together solutions. Assistance in the preparation of individual client's tax returns and ensuring compliance. Assisting private businesses with their tax goals and structuring plans, helping to add value by ensuring they are tax efficient and meet their intended strategy.

Verbal and written communication skills - from liaising with the team and clients through preparing correspondence and work Tax technical skills - from studying for the tax exams and also absorbed through client and internal conversations and day to day tasks. This has helped to build my understanding and knowlege. Accounting technical skills - from studying for ACA qualification and putting these skills to use in exams. Teamworking abilities - from liaising between those working on a client to ensure progress. Leadership skills - Taking ownership of specific tasks and progressing them accordingly by liaising with the relevant parties.

I generally enjoy my programme. It started off quite intense in terms of exams which was overwhelming at first however since I have settled into my job role I enjoy working with the team on a day to day basis through spending time in the office. There is a good work-life balance in terms of what is expected.

Overall it has been generally well organised however there have been some changes and lack of communications at times, for example dates for courses/exams changing without prior notification. There is also a lack of clarity around the admin tasks that are needed to be compliant with the apprenticeship

They are generally very supportive, although I have personally not needed to use them for any special circumstances. There are lots of points of contact who are generally responsive and helpful. We are given a fairly good amount of paid study leave in order to prepare for our ACA exams

Kaplan are generally very good when it comes to the classroom courses, however some of the courses are self-led learning which is more difficult. They do provide a live chat with tutor function which I have found to be helpful, in order to get quick responses to questions when going through content.

It has definitely helped my technical understanding and general awareness, however I have yet to see a lot of the content come up in my actual role yet. I feel that in time this will increase as I progress more with the tax exams for the ACA which will be more relevant to my role.

Yes, there are sports teams for example regular football games between teams. There are also regular social activities within the team which usually consists of an evening meal or lunch, or another activity. I have also had chance to attend professional networking events which have been insightful and useful for my career.

Yes

They are a great and supportive employer with a great network of talented individuals who are able to help. You are able to learn a huge amount and you are not expected to know what you haven't yet learned. You are eased into the job role as you gradually build up your knowledge. Work life balance is good as their flexible work policy allows you to fit work around your life, including work from home, flexible hours and ease of booking holiday.

Persevere through the recruitment process as it is quite long. Take an interest and research the role that you're applying to, and what is required of you in the program. Show that you are motivated and keen to get involved in as much as possible and you will do well.