Accounting/Taxation Professional Apprenticeship Review

Item: Accounting/Taxation Professional Apprenticeship at Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
Rating: 4.9
Author: Anonymous

at Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)

Higher Level Apprenticeship

Accounting

Stratford, London, UK

Review Submitted: March 2024

Overall Rating

4.9 /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!

5/5 - Overview of Role

5/5 - Skills Development

4.8/5 - 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

Although my formal role is an accountant apprentice. I work within the enforcement department of the FCA meaning my day to day task revolve around forensic accounting more. I work together with the investigation team to conduct investigations on financial firms, therefore some of my task included bank statements analysis. Also 20% of my working hours are specifically dedicated to studying towards my qualification provided by my learning provided BPP.

To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

5/5

I thoroughly enjoy my program! I have been included in diverse range of task and cases allowing me to sharpen my skills while making meaningful contributions which I find very rewarding and motivating. The team and workplace environment is super welcoming and supportive!

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

5/5

This apprenticeship has allowed me to learn many new skill! I've strengthened my excel skills, and learnt how to use multiple new software typically used in industry. You can always find events provided by colleagues on multiple software's in different formats such as training, demo's, helpful tips or even drop in sessions. These have been super helpful for me as a new starter, but also good in enhancing my understanding on software I already use such as Word.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?

5/5

As an apprentice you are given 20% of working hours to dedicate to studying toward the qualification. This is well understood by the team and everyone is very accommodating with my capacity.

How much support do you receive from your employer?

5/5

They are very supportive, I have regular calls with my line manager to discuss my progress and any concerns I may have. My line manager also attends my regular call with my learning provider which provide specific support for the qualification.

How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

4/5

I have been provided multiple ways to contact my training provider BPP if I need support. For now I have only attended their remote sessions which have been very useful the format, availability and chat box function are very helpful. However I did initially have some struggles when enrolling in the course.

How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

5/5

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

There are many extra curricular activities to get involved in ranging from sports, crafts and day outs. The FCA also holds multiple networking events.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to a friend?

Yes

Why?

I definitely would recommend working as an apprentice at the FCA. The program itself offers a fantastic opportunity to gain invaluable experience in the field of accounting while receiving exceptional mentorship and support from colleagues. The diverse range of task and the collaborative culture makes it a fun and fulfilling environment to work in!

What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)?

I recommend researching the work the FCA does, departments within the FCA and their mission and core values. Gain a strong understanding in what motivates you in applying to the FCA and just be yourself!

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