Flying Start Degree programme Review

The role entails working on different areas of the audit (e.g. revenue, salaries & accounts payable) and performing a series of testing to gain comfort over these balances. In addition, an element of the role is also performing stock counts. Within the audit division, clients range from size, nature and industry providing a wide variety of exposure.

In regards to skills, a key element of the role is building the core skills of communication, teamwork and attention to detail. When collaborating with clients, colleagues and external individuals this enables you to develop your communication skills. The audit engagement requires a high degree of collaboration, teamwork and attention to detail. Additionally, during this placement I have learned how to adapt my working approach in a virtual environment.

Although very challenging, overall I have found the programme enjoyable. The opportunity to gain professional work experience at a leading professional services firm along with the chance to have the opportunity to be a university student has been great. During my placements before lockdown, the socials where very fun and allowed the opportunity to network with members from the firm in a relaxed environment.

Overall, the programme is well organised. Undertaking the 12/15 professional exams has been extremely useful. During our first year, we are allocated offices which is a very smooth process. I am personally a strong advocate of the timing of our placements, and feel that having three shorter placements rather than one large once gives you the benefit of not missing out to much on university life.

During the placements, as Flying Starts we are allocated a Flying Start Champion who is on hand to help assist with any queries we may have. In addition, every member of the Flying Start programme is also allocated a career coach which is very handy for any issues you may encounter.

For the Flying Start degree the main training provider was my University Team and ICAEW. Personally, I felt the Course Director did a fantastic job of providing support where needed. As the degree is an intense course, I was fortunate enough to receive good support from the university team including tutors and lecturers.

Undertaking the ICAEW ACA Qualification and the exams that comes with it is very helpful in performing better in the role as an Audit associate. Through gain a thorough and detailed insight into the technical and theoretical elements of accounting concepts and modules, this allows me to apply theory into practice.

In terms of extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work, there were multiple socials throughout my placements. During my first two placements (before lockdown), socials included quiz nights, bingo, bowling etc. Additionally, I was also fortunate to attend the Christmas Social event which was a great way to network with people. There are also volunteer opportunities to get involved in.

Yes

From my experience, I would recommended PwC. It's reputation and size allows you to get a fantastic company down on your CV and be exposed to a variety of different opportunities. Additionally, the training and opportunity to undertake a professional qualification is very attractive. The people at the firm are also very driven and supportive which is very attractive for a young professional.

My top tips would be to conduct plenty of research into the line of service you are considering of applying for and practice the core competency questions. Additionally, the interview is there not to catch you out but to showcase your skills and qualities so try to be as confident as possible!