Overall Rating
3.9 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
4/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
3.4/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
My role includes creating tax computations and returns for clients. I review their financial information for the year and then later input this into the relevant sections of the return. This involves regular correspondence. My role also includes training towards the ATT and CTA qualifications which are required at work.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I have thoroughly enjoyed my program so far. The variety of clients has ensured that every day I am working on something slightly different, and this creates an engaging environment as I learn and understand each clients needs. As well as this, the trust given straight away to work with real clients has allowed me to progress and develop.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Since starting, I have gained a greater understanding of the general tax environment. As well as this, I am gaining detailed knowledge of tax throughout my exams and my College training. There have also been regular opportunities for training on soft skills such as communication, well being, and time management.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
The program is well structured and takes into account the busy periods for each office. However, some of the training from the provider does not take this into account and a large proportion of the mock exams (which can often take 5 hours) have to be sat on a specific weekend. However, sometimes you can have multiple of these at once, which can cause there to be overlaps with work. Despite this, the dates for training are communicated clearly.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
My employer provides exceptional support. They have been understanding during the busy periods and they regularly take time to further explain points if needed. They offer in house training which has helped me to understand all aspects of the business. My employer communicates effectively what is expected, and provides support to ensure that I achieve this.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
My training provider provides all of the resources required. Whilst they also provide small in person sessions for the initial tutoring, a large amount is reliant on you to revise and go into more detail, as everything is given quite a brief overview in the courses. The mock exams are mandatory, however I do not believe that they give everyone enough time to revise as they often overlap and take up a large proportion of the weekend for multiple weeks.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
I have gained a much better understanding of what it is that I am doing day to day. Whilst my employer has explained and taught the actions needed, the qualifications helps me to understand why it is needed and the reasons behind these actions. This will enable me to help provide advise in the future.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
3/5
There are professional networking events held occasionally to help grow your network. There are regular social activities which are held monthly and before you join to help you to meet your cohort and people who have been working there for a few years. In addition to this, there is a 'buddy' system which helps you to network. There are currently no sports teams.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend S&W to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I believe that it is an engaging environment to work. They provide the necessary support to help you to develop and progress throughout your professional qualifications, regardless of your current stage in life. There is also a strong sense of community within the offices and business which helps you to grow your network.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to S&W?
I would recommend that you ensure you are prepared for the interview. It is important to practice and to research not only your role, but the company as a whole. It is equally as important that the company is the right fit for you, and I think that this is something that is valued at TS&W.
