Flying Start Degree programme - FS3 - Manchester Review

Role was an audit associate (AS1 to AS2 level over the programme) . On a day to day basis we were assigned to various teams who worked on various clients (ranging from a week's booking to over a month at a time on one client). Work would include data analysis, data entry, discussion with the client, and substantive testing.

Yes, without a doubt. The whole process was a steep learning curve. At the start, I knew little about accounting and the business world in general. Although the focus is primarily on the development of technical skills, I found that I was able to further my soft skills and improve the way in which I communicate and work with others

I think the people who you work alongside make the experience a positive one. The support you receive from fellow colleagues, coaching from managers and overall feel of the office atmosphere make you feel welcome and comfortable. I think enjoying the actual work performed will vary person to person, however for me it was good.

The programme was very well structured. The university components fed nicely into the work placement where we could put learning into practice. Induction was timely when arriving on placement and the relevant support systems were in place where appropriate e.g. career coach, tutors etc. On clients, I feel like the jobs were generally well staffed and enough resources were available.

Support during work varies from client to client depending on timeframe and deadlines. However I found there to be sufficient support when needed. I found it especially helpful to have career coaches who were always on hand to help with work related issues. The HR and IT teams were also very helpful and swiftly responded to any problems that I had.

In terms of the university, I found that they were on hand whenever needed to help with issues that we were facing, whether it would be regarding things learnt in class, or general admin issues and queries. In terms of the ICAEW, they provided the learning materials needed for certain modules, however apart from that I had little contact with them.

To a certain extent, the knowledge learnt during lectures etc does give a foundation to the practices engaged in over the work placement. That said, nothing compares to real world experience. I feel as if I learnt a lot more working rather than in lectures. However this isn't to say the learning materials aren't important, as I feel like they do give you a strong foundation on which to build over work placements.

Yes, there are plenty of social events on at the manchester office. These are very inclusive and allow different people to get to know each other. Aside from social events, there are various sports events such as weekly football sessions and golfing days, both of which I engaged in over the course of the programme.

Yes

PwC provides a vast range of opportunities to work on a variety of different business areas. I think even if audit is perhaps something you don't see yourself in the long term pursuing, the business experience you obtain will push you in the right direction and give you vital insight into how business works.

I think it's beneficial (although not necessary) to gain experience in the sector prior to applying to PwC. Not only will this give you a potentially advantage in the application process, but it will provide you with a feel as to how the industry works and what sort of work you'll be performing. Regarding assessment days, I'd say be confident in how you present yourself and how you speak to others.