Flying Start Degree programme- FS1 Leeds Review

I am an intern/trainee on the Flying start degree program on my first placement and I am part of the Audit department. My role involves being a team member and completing work on statutory audits of companies such as documenting samples for revenue, OPEX and COs testing amongst others.

I have learnt many new skills including excel and other technical skills. My accounting and auditing knowledge from university has been put into practice and therefore i have gained a deeper and wider understanding. I have also developed existing skills like time management, resilience, team working, organisation, communication amongst others.

I really enjoyed my program because it allowed me to experience the practical side and gain valuable industry experience that will make me stand out amongst other graduates. It also gave me a break from studying and assignments and allowed me to work and learn many new things and skills. I also got the opportunity to live and work in a new city.

The Flying start degree is well established as it has been running for many years now all across the country. There have been numerous ex flying start students now in successful positions which is very inspiring. As a result the program has a clear structure and progression and is very reputable and prestigious.

I reecieved alot of support from a number of sources while on placement the main ones being my career coach who is my main point of contact for placement related queries and concerns. I was also allocated a buddy for mental health and wellbeing support as well as a flying start champion in the leeds office

Whilst on placement i still had access to my personal tutor from university who i reached out to when i needed help related to university matters. Our professors also kept in touch and were on hand to answer any queries if we decided to do some university work while on placement

The teaching and exams we did as part of our qualification definitely helped me to perform my role better because it provided me with a solid base of understanding about the basics of auditing and tax that gave me an advantage coming into my first placement because i understood fundamental concepts and terminology

There were a couple of extra cirricular activities whilst on placement including the office spring ball which was a fun evening and allowed us to get to know our colleagues better. we also had a flying start social and an LCASS social. At office we had a metal health and wellbeing event

Yes

Great opportunities and structured career path. This is one of the big 4 audit firms and as such is highly reputable and established. There are great people in the Leeds office and alot of benefits and services provided to the employees. I had a great experience on my placement and would absolutely recommend

I would advise others to make use of all the training sessions provided by PWC because its a great opportunity to learn and increase your knowledge which you can then apply. I would also say to make use of all the support services and tools available. Get involved where you can and get to know the other lovely people working with you