Assistant Accountant & Business Advisor Review
at RSM
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Accounting
Crawley, West Sussex
Review Submitted: May 2022
Overall Rating
5 /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!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
5/5
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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:
5/5
A typical day can include anything from preparing cash books / VAT returns, to accounts for SMEs, iXBRL tagging, preparing Independent Examinations, and preparing sales charts for clients. This applies for a broad set of clients, all of which you will gain valuable experience from! As you progress within your career, you'll gradually take on more of these responsibilities and for more challenging clients.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
A lot, perhaps a little too much? I love working with the team and taking on new work for new clients each day. We all work really well with each other and they have become good friends of mine. The RSM culture is great, as again I have had the chance to work with other offices, and there's also loads of opportunities to work with your seniors. There are plenty of social events as well, such as sports day, Christmas parties, and networking opportunities.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Since starting my career at RSM, I've developed and improved a number of new skills. This includes communication, collaboration and teamwork skills, proactivity, organisation, planning and prioritisation, and time-management skills, as well as professional scepticism and analytical skills. All of these skills are integral within your role at RSM.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The programme is very well structured; you will attend course dates with your training provider, which is currently BPP University, and then you'll usually have about a three week window before sitting your exam. The college materials are fantastic and you have access to a number of exam questions and resources on the BPP Hub.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
The RSM Training team are fantastic and will make sure you are on track and up-to-date with all necessary training requirements. You will also have an ETM (Exam Training Manager) to assist with your development, where on a regular basis, you'll have a meeting to discuss your development and concerns.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
You will receive plenty of support from your Exam Training Manager, your BPP coach, as well as all your colleagues, who will generally show a great interest in your progression and development, and will be glad to assist you at any point in time. Your colleagues have all undertaken a similar journey, so it is important to raise any questions or concerns with them.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
BPP provides you with all the necessary skills and knowledge that you need to pass your exams and provide the necessary expertise within your day-to-day role, regardless how little you know when you first start your career. The course covers everything from the accounting basics (double entry) to calculating tax, understanding the purpose and requirements of audit, and how to prepare financial statements.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
The list is endless! The RSM community is incredible and you will the opportunity to get involved in countless opportunities and events. This can include networking events, sports days, charity events & fundraising, social events and team meals, consumer market groups, and innovation campaigns. I'd strongly encourage to put your name forwards for all opportunities that arise, as it is a great chance to meet like-minded colleagues, liaise with seniors of the firm, and make lifelong friends.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend RSM to a friend?
Yes
Why?
RSM ticks of all the boxes! From day one, you'll feel like a valued member of the team, and everyday is different to the other. If you have an eagerness to learn, then a role in accounting is perfect for you, as there's not one when I won't go away without learning something new. The RSM offices are modern, spacious and inviting. Your colleagues are supportive and friendly. There are plenty of social events, as well as opportunities to progress with the firm.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to RSM?
Firstly, in order to be successful, you must show enthusiasm and interest with everything you do. Be sure to put your name forwards for all opportunities that arise, as you'll meet get the chance to work with and meet some very successful people within the firm. Make sure to make plenty of notes along the way, and by all means, do not be afraid to ask as many questions as you like!
