Business Academy Review

Job Title: Business Academy Student Throughout the week I was based in the Personal Tax Centre in Exeter. This meant I got an insight into the day to day role of working in this service area. I got to assist in completing various tax returns, working alongside colleagues of various levels from tax assistants to senior managers. I was given a personal laptop and desk for the week and was given responsibility by the rest of the team.

I learnt what those working in the PTC actually do. Primarily dealing with clients tax returns and inquiries etc. I therefore developed knowledge of how these tasks are completed.

I thoroughly enjoyed the programme and the entire team were really friendly and approachable. The office was much smaller than i thought and there was only myself and one other person on the programme for the week.

I felt valued by the company, as i was given responsibility and set up as a proper employee for the week, with logins etc.

The programme was structured into a few main sections. Set up and IT training. Followed by meeting oyur buddy for the week and setting goals we wanted to acheive. Then we spent the majority of the rest of the week working with our buddy in their respective team completing actually work. Finally on the final day we completed a 'next steps' excersise and gave a presentation to a few members of the team.

Training was provided over skype, from a central office. This worked well as we could ask any questions as the training was going on.

Lots. We had our own buddy and counsellor for the week. Besides having various email contact details we could ask if we wanted to know any more information about the business apprenticeship etc.

The salary covered the costs of travelling.

On two of the five days we were taken to lunch by members of EY staff. One day with our buddy then another iwth senior managers. Pizza was also ordered into the office on the final day.

Yes

The opportunity to get experience with a top 4 professional services firm is great, with it giving me a real insight into life at such a commpany.

Be prepared for the telephone interview, and have examples of when you display your skills to hand.