Trainee Associate Review

I work as an EY School Leaver in UK&I Assurance - Audit. Every day is different as there is a large client base and there is a different team on every engagement. I am responsible for a variety of tasks which I complete and are reviewed by a more senior team member. The tasks can include discussing internal processes with the client and auditing specific areas of the financial statement.

Having no prior accounting or auditing experience meant there was a steep learning curve. After working for EY for less than a year there has already been a significant improvement in not only my accounting and auditing knowledge but also my time-management and communication skills. In addition EY allows for people to develop the skills they are interested in, this way I was able to develop my Excel skills.

I enjoy the variety of clients I get to work with and the travelling that comes with that. I enjoy working as part of a team and that I get to work as a part of many different teams. I like that the job is somehow consistent and inconsistent at the same time. Although there is constant variety in my work the end goal is always the same.

EY provides a flexible working environment which makes it's employees feel more valued. I am allowed to move my work schedule around any personal commitments which shows that they value my life outside of work. Although I am a first year I still have my own responsibilities showing that the company has confidence in my ability to perform and values me as a member.

All course work is spread out over the training contract to allow the apprentices enough time to study. No exams are planned during the busiest months of the year so that there is no need to sacrifice study time to work. There is a school leaver contact at each office that is very approachable in case any issues might arise.

My courses are provided by Kaplan. They provide us with required study materials as well as extra summary notes as support. During the course the staff is dedicated to make sure the students understand all concepts. They are available for contact outside of the course dates if any extra support is needed.

No exams are planned during the busiest months of the year so that there is no need to sacrifice study time to work. Everyone respects the hours of those that need to study and don't put extra pressure on those. Everyone that I have worked with has been willing to provide coaching to the younger apprentices.

EY allows for travel expenses to be claimed as well as hotel and subsistence costs for engagements that are far away. This way staff can still be comfortable without having to be concerned about costs. The salary covers all my costs of living and leaves me with some extra money every month.

EY has a variety of sports teams that employees are able to join as well as societies based on your lifestyle and interests. The firm is quite social so drinks are often organised after the working week. This allows people so socialize and connect on a more personal level. EY also allows you to participate in voluntary work and expeditions.

Yes

The EY School Leaver Programme is a great alternative to university for those who prefer to learn by doing the work rather than just reading about it. The firm is very supportive of your studies and allows you to have a good work-life balance. Every day is different as you often don't work on the same clients for long and you are performing many different tasks.

Consider your reasons for applying and make sure they are the right ones. Mentally prepare yourself for the responsibilities that will be given to you. Prepare for the interviews and assessment centre but don't stress about it. Be yourself while you are being assessed, that way you will immediately know if you click with the people you could be working with in the future.