360 Apprentice Review

The apprenticeship is part of a rotational scheme, so we rotate around the main 3 sectors of KPMG. This includes Audit, Tax and Advisory. Currently I am in Audit - where there is no repeat day. Work is largely based on the clients site, where you at early stage you will be testing invoices of clients and matching them to expected numbers. You will also be contacting Banks which can be based abroad to verify bank balances and the work ranges much more wider than this.

Communication skills are enhanced a lot as a lot of the work especially in Audit as a lot of your work is client interaction based. However, the qualifications develop your actual Accounting skills, currently I am working towards my AAT qualification and upon completion aim to move onto my ACA.

The programme is great. The facilities in within the office are really good so you feel good throughout the day. Everyday is a new experience which at this stage is really good as you're constantly learning.

KPMG value you a lot. They show a lot of belief in you and allow you to take on challenging tasks at early stages. Especially when you are completely new the apprenticeship management team make you feel very welcome into the firm and honestly speaking everyone at the firm will make you feel very comfortable and the 'apprentice' title doesn't let you down one bit. You are treated with utmost respect by even the most senior members of staff which includes directors/partners.

The programme has now been running for a number of years so the management team are very efficient in managing your time - whether this be time off work for college or structuring time for clients. It's all done in an efficient manner.

Our provider is BPP. Who run tuitions pre-exam and are always open to speak to as they will answer whatever is needed. However, the onus is mostly on yourself as you have to take responsibility to prepare yourselves well enough for the exam. The material they provide in textbooks and question books are more than enough to get you through the exam.

KPM

Joining as an apprentice you don't expect to be paid a massive salary in your first year. However the firm pays you very well in comparison to other schemes. Moreover, the expenses policy in terms of travelling to client sites is very good in terms of most of your expenses in working hours are paid for such as taxi fares and train journeys. As you also get a lunch allowance.

KPMG offer you 6 days a year for volunteering activities which is still paid for and a lot of socials take place on a weekly basis. Apart from this there also many societies as part of the firm - something for everyone.

Yes

Prospects are amazing! The fact you are an employee at KPMG is looked at amazingly by future employees.

Just be yourself in the whole process and confidence is a key. Apart from that it's standard interview stuff and just make sure you know what you're applying for.