Audit Apprentice Review

I work in the audit team in the pensions centre of excellence department. As an apprentice, it is a mixture of carrying out audit work as well as learning on the job. I have to prepare Work Papers and chase fund managers so that we may obtain information to carry out the audit procedures

I have learnt many new skills such as becoming proficient in Excel and Word. I have also developed my communication skills as we have to liaise with clients and communicate with the team in order to carry out the work to the highest level. I have learnt more regarding audit too and its importance in the business sector.

I really enjoy the programme - it is extremely different to what I did before joining KPMG. I have met amazing people whilst partaking in this programme and learnt many new skills that will allow me to prosper in the near future. I enjoy the programme as it has given me the chance to achieve qualifications without the stress that uni-goers face.

I believe it is fairly organised. We receive emails frequently in regards to exams if they have been delayed or cancelled and constant reminders to keep on top of our revision. However, more communication and forums in particular will be more helpful where we get time specifically to learn more about the apprenticeship programme.

We receive a lot of support from our employer. They provide us with training that will help us on the job and also for our exams. They are very considerate and lenient when it comes to exam time too - they provide us with extra time and support so that we may achieve the best results.

We receive a lot of support from our training provider BPP when working towards the qualification. We have classes in college, sometimes online and the tutors are always readily available to answer our questions when we need help. We also receive revision packs and tools that will help us in our exams.

This is something they could potentially improve on - they focus a lot on the qualification and not much on the audit work itself. If they could provide us with some extra training in college in regards to audit procedures then that would be much better for our understanding and growth

There any events such as the football league that is held but that is very far from me as I live quite distant to the office. There aren't that many socials that take place - it is understandable during the busy seasons it is difficult to organise one but even in the off-peak seasons there aren't that many socials that take place

Yes

KPMG is part of the Big 4 which means it is up there with the best. Also, they provide you with a headstart compared to those who study at university - at KPMG, we are given training and the qualifications which would take much longer if an alternative route is taken. KPMG respects everyone which is another reason why I would recommend it to a friend

The first tip I will give is to not panic and take everything as it comes. Just be yourself as KPMG will look at who you are and not who they want you to be. Stay calm and composed, always remain keen and eager to learn and ensure your behaviour elucidates this passion and zeal to grow.