Assurance Associate Review

by PwC

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.7/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

As part of the Flying Start degree programme, I spend time studying Accounting and Business at the University of Reading and go on paid work experience placements with PwC. From day 1 I was spending time working in Audit (assurance) with a team for a client. This involves performing the year end audit for the client and uses technical accounting knowledge learnt from university to perform tasks around assessing the reliability of the client's financial statements.

10/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I will have completed 12 out of 15 of the ICAEW's ACA exams by the time I graduate, meaning I will fully qualify around 13 months later. That's the fastest degree route to becoming a chartered accountant in the UK. I have learnt many people skills, technical skills and professional skills.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

The company culture is very friendly and supportive. PwC are focused on developing you as an individual and this is clear from day 1.

9/10

4. How valued do you feel by PwC?

Very valued. We receive appraisals and have recognition awards within the firm. I was fully involved in work performed and this work added value to clients, which meant PwC valued me.

8/10

5. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The programme is very structured. There is great support and tuition from university tutors, and there is a great support network in place during placements at PwC.

9/10

6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?

A lot of support was received from the university tutors.

8/10

6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?

PwC are very supportive and have in place structured networks and mentors to ensure you always have someone to help you if you need it.

9/10

7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?

Very well. PwC will cover the cost of your placement accommodation if this is away from your university, and pay you a generous salary.

8/10

8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?

There are lots of sporting, volunteering and community development events.