What research and preparation did you do when applying?
The first thing I had to do when I applied for the apprenticeship was to complete numeracy and literacy tests, which I was able to practice for using mock exams online before completing. I then had to go to an assessment day and complete a group exercise, this was harder to prepare for. However, I spoke to friends who had already experienced this, and decided the best thing was to try to get my opinion across and try to include people who I didn't believe were given a chance to speak as much. Finally, for the interview, I prepared by learning as much as I could about the company and the apprenticeship, and the area I wanted to go into. I also tried to remember some key news articles that I could mention.
What are the best things about the programme?
The best things about my apprenticeship is that I am already working and provided I pass my exams, I have an almost guaranteed job after my apprenticeship within PwC. Since I have already completed 2 years, I will then have more opportunities to progress within the company, before I would have even completed university had I have gone. I already am able to delegate work to the new higher apprentices, and will effectively be managing the people who come into the firm when I would have, had I have gone to university. Other benefits are that the firm gives me time off to study for my exams and to complete the diploma, meaning I am able to receive at the end a qualification which is equivalent to a degree. The qualification is also well recognised across many firms, meaning I am not limited to just PwC, should I ever choose to leave, it wouldn't hold me back from finding other jobs.
Any bad?
It is often quite challenging as you are completing a full time job, whilst completing exams and a diploma within 2 years. It is a lot of hard work and sometimes I find it difficult to juggle my priorities, but we are all given people managers within PwC and I will often turn to mine during these moments, to ensure that I can manage all three.
Have you any advice to SGGS girls who are thinking about school leaver programmes as an alternative to university?
I would advise looking into as many different programmes as you can to understand what each offers. They will all offer different qualifications, different lengths of apprenticeships and different time allowed to study and knowing what works for you may help when making your final decision.