RAS trainee Review

My role is in risk advisory services and internal audit. Each week I am on a different review auditing the internal controls to do with a certain area of the client's business. We set out a few risks that we will focus on and then through interviews and testing we confirm whether they have adequate controls in place and whether they operate effectively.

Communication skills are vital as you do a lot of talking to clients, this is often management including the CFO, directors etc. It has also developed my report writing as we produce a report for each review. I've learnt how to get my thoughts across in an appropriate manner, providing enough information but not waffling on.

I am not overly enthusiastic about it but it is interesting to see how different clients operate and to get to know the individuals in higher roles. It can be stressful with deadlines and exams however this is to be expected. The exam content varies in terms of my interest levels.

The programme is well structured in terms of regular update calls and emails sent out, however it can be difficult to get in touch with people when you have questions, and often they can lack communication around exams and how to go about doing things. The information is available, it can just take some effort to get it.

My employer does not have much involvement in my apprenticeship outside of work. We go on study leave and get on with it in the background. If I do have any questions though they are helpful and those who have already been through the course offer their guidance and help.

There are regular calls and sessions where they offer support and throughout the stages where content is actually delivered they are always available to answer queries. I get emails giving me advice as to how to approach studies and I can reply to these if I have any issues or questions.

So far my qualification has not been very relevant to my actual role in internal audit. It is more geared towards external audit and accounting. Only the assurance exams have been related to my job however even then, I feel my job experienced has helped me with my exams, not vice versa.

There are often events to get involved in, albeit they are now virtual. There were previously sports events, my team would go for team meals or drinks and sometimes a team activity. We had a RAS conference where all staff in RAS attended to watch presentations and to network with others.

Yes

My work life balance has been ok so far whereas I have heard that at other companies this can be less so. It is partly to do with the role, being internal audit instead of external, however in my role I find it good. The people are friendly and directors are approachable.

Research the job before hand so you know what you are applying to, as once you start it is difficult to pull out of an apprenticeship, so make sure it is something you want to do. It will also help you understand what you will be doing which will aid your interview.