Audit Apprentice Review
at National Audit Office
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Audit
London
Review Submitted: April 2025
Overall Rating
3.5 /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!
3/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
3.2/5
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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:
3/5
As an audit apprentice at the NAO, i support audits of the public sector by testing financial data and reviewing documents. I work within my team, attend client and team meetings, and study towards my qualification while gaining hands-on experience in auditing government departments.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
I enjoy the NAO apprenticeship programme, especially the valuable experience i gain through real audit work and supportive team environments. As a trainee some tasks can be repetitive, but they help build a strong foundation. The flexible work structure allows me to manage my time well and stay on top of college work.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I have developed strong analytical skills from identifying discrepancies and drawing evidence based conclusions. Also developed my communication skills from this apprenticeship from being able to clearly explain audit findings to clients and actively listen to their responses.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
The programme is generally well organised, with structured support and decent amount of training available to help build technical skills. However, there could be more clarity around what is expected of apprentices regarding to college work and qualification admin, as guidance in these areas can sometimes feel unclear or inconsistent.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I receive a good level of support from my audit team and the wider office as a whole. Managers and colleges are approachable and willing to help with any questions and acknowledge that as a trainee there would be quite a few. As trainees we are given performance coaches where we can go to them for any support.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
Receive a fair amount of support from training provider, especially in terms of scheduled lessons and access to learning materials. Tutors are generally helpful and responsive when approached. Online forum is provided to ask tutors questions when away from college which is helpful.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
The ACA qualification helps me perform better in the role by giving me a solid foundation of key accounting and audit principles, which i can apply directly to my tasks. It builds my technical knowledge and boosts my confidence when tackling audit work.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
2/5
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend National Audit Office to a friend?
Yes
Why?
It offers an opportunity to gain hands-on audit experience while studying towards the ACA qualification. The environment is supportive, with flexible working, plenty of learning opportunities, and a strong sense of team work.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to National Audit Office?
Do your research on the NAO's work to understand its public sector focus and impact. In the application show genuine interest in auditing and public service. Also be prepared to balance work and study as strong time management is key.
