Accounts Assistant Review

I prepare small company accounts, complete independent examinations for charities, grant audits, tax returns, personal and corporation tax. I also attend college once a week and study towards my ACA but am currently completing my AAT qualification.

I have learnt many new skills like being able to use various accounting software like Xero, Sage etc. I have also developed soft skills which helps me at work when communicating with clients and also in general day to day life. I am much better at using excel and am more 'tech-savvy'.

I enjoy my program because it is guiding me to become a chartered accountant which is my goal but I like the work environment as everyone is friendly and is willing to help when needed. I am provided support so I am never stuck of confused on what to do.

My program is very well structured as I was able to fast-track my level 3 qualification so I can be chartered much sooner. I was also accommodated for when I failed an exam and my manager that is in charge of my studies was able to defer my following exams so I never fell back and got all the learning time needed.

I receive plenty of in house support as the work links to my exams. They emphasise on teaching trainees new things which all helps with studies. Even when managers and senior colleagues are busy they are always willing to hear you out and take time out of their day to support you.

My employers provide plenty of support with studies and were willing to help me study for a resit exam to ensure that I pass. They also directly communicate with my training provider so that they are up to date on where I am at and are able to accommodate for any extra help that I would need in qualifying.

My studying and work goes hand in hand so college gives me the time to learn the techniques and work allows me to implement those techniques so that they are ingrained in my head. This makes studying easier and the work easier and more enjoyable too.

There aren't many socials that I am aware of but within our team we will setup a get together where we all part take in some sort of activity like paintballing or arcades or even just to the pub. There is also an annual charity football event in the summer which I am yet to take part in

Yes

I think Crowe is an excellent place to be as a school leaver as it allows you to gain invaluable experience and also has a structured course to allow us to qualify as quickly as possible but with a good balance of work and study time. However, for me personally it is quite far out as my commute daily is over an hour - but the office is great and it is worth the long travels everyday.

The application process isn't hard and you are provided plenty of support by the early careers development team throughout the process (which is especially great if this is your first time applying for a job just after finishing college). I would recommend looking into the companies background and facts about the company so that you know more about the company but so that you can also impress the manager/partner that is interviewing you too.