Flying Start Degree programme- Placement 2 Embankment Review

by PwC

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

9.6/10

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

My role involves assisting the team I am working on with getting information from the client, selecting samples to test, and documenting meetings and audit worked performed. On my second placement I have progressed a lot and now decide what we need to test and how for some key audit areas.

10/10

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

I develop my Microsoft Excel skills significantly every time I come on placement; every year I learn shortcuts and ways to make every task quick and easy. I have also developed my people skills after spending a lot of time on client calls and sometimes leading them. I have also strengthened my working relationships

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I thoroughly enjoy my programme and would recommend it to anyone. I never realised how far ahead going down the 'fast track' route would put me until I started working with people often 3+ years older than me who are in the same position on the route to being qualified.

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

In my opinion, the programme is very well structured. It does have some high pressure elements as, at Reading uni, we leave placement on the last day of March and have a month to revise for exams in May so it is not for the faint hearted! However, it is well worth it. Lectures and uni life for the first 3 months of the year and then placement for the next 3 is perfect for me.

8/10

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

I receive lots of support from my employer and everyone feels like they are there to help you. I have a buddy at work who is 2 years above me, and a career coach who is a Manager. Any problems I have, I go straight to them and they know how to assist.

10/10

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

We receive lots of support from our training provider and Academic Tutors are available for meetings at any time. On 'blackboard', our university site, there are lots of past papers and other resources we can access at any time for extra practice. Our lecturers are also always reachable- even when we are on placement.

9/10

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

My qualifications I have gained at university are invaluable when performing my role. In audit, it is important to have an awareness of the changing rules and accounting standards to enable you to act professional. Also, having the chance to apply these things and make them more 'real life' is extremely helpful.

10/10

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.)

As we go in to the office in 'busy season', there are not too many social events running. However, I have already been invited to various other events like the Summer Party and other team gatherings for the rest of the year. At the end of busy season, each team is also treated to an 'audit meal'.

10/10

9a. Would you recommend PwC to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

I would recommend PwC to anyone because you get work experience as well as studying towards being a Chartered Accountant. The Flying Start Degree programme blends university life with work perfectly and I do not feel like I have missed out on anything. Being able to earn money doing a job i enjoy whilst being a student is good too!

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

I would make sure you have as much on your CV as possible to show you are good at building relationships, teamwork, critical thinking, and problem solving. Put as many key examples as you can about times you have been resilient, worked in a team etc. And detail any work experience you have had.