Corporate Tax Assistant Review

Completing corporation tax return calculations on many different kinds of business. Assisting with more complex tax advisory work when available. Communicating and collaborating with other assistants within tax and other departments across the business. Very regular communication with more senior staff on a variety of jobs and plans. Contacting clients with queries or completed tax returns.

I have learnt how to effectively manage a portfolio of work and create flexible timelines for conflicting jobs. I have developed my communication skills as a large part of the job is communicating ideas or information to colleagues or clients efficiently and effectively. I have also become more comfortable interacting with more senior people as I often work with Senior Managers or Directors

I am really enjoying the programme, the content of my study is linked to my job so the work and study support each other. The study is also well paced and I do not feel like I am overwhelmed with either work or study. My employer supports me with the apprenticeship programme and provides time to complete related tasks at work.

The programme is very well structured, my first two years of study/exams were mapped out from the beginning with the rest to be decided as I progress through to allow for changes in pace. The length of the programme is suitable and allows for a good work/study/life balance with consistent growth.

There is a trainee support officer at work who co-ordinates with the training provider and my line manager to ensure that I am progressing effectively. Both the support officer and my line manager attend my progress review with my training provider so they are aware of my progress and of any additional support I need.

I have quarterly progress reviews which are very useful, during these my tutor ensures I am doing ok generally at work and at home and with the apprenticeship. My tutor, and indeed every module tutor, are always available and respond very promptly to any of my queries. There are helplines and safety officers available to contact too.

My qualification definitely helps in my role, I am studying the ACA/CTA. The ACA includes some specific tax matters but the accounting also helps when looking at accounts, asking questions of the client or audit, and understanding the general financial principle behind companies.

The social team is excellent and very active, there are pub trips, meals after work, bowling/mini golf visits, and quiz nights with prizes. The activities are always inclusive to all and the social team work always ask for feedback and new ideas. Attendance is never mandatory or expected but lots of people go as they are always a good time. There are also sports teams across the firm and they are always open to a new team being formed.

Yes

The culture is very friendly, senior management is very approachable and are open to new ideas and feedback. The apprenticeship is high quality and there is lots of support provided. There is lots of support and training materials available for new starters and other members of the team are quick to help. I do want to note that although the pay is fair-to-good, the pay structure is not set or well defined, it can be hard to receive an answer of what you might expect on reaching a certain grade.

Be yourself in an interview, they want a well rounded person who is more than just their academic results. I would recommend trying to get some work experience or volunteering first, even if it is just a week, as it will give something for you to discuss and will round out your experiences. Apply whenever you are ready as they recruit continually on a rolling basis. If you aren't confident in interviews, especially online ones, apply to some less desirable companies first to practice technique and get some feedback.