The objectives of this course is to familiarise first year trainee accountants with their new working environment, as well as to equip them with the necessary skills and qualities that will make the trainee both highly trainable and highly productive! After this course delegates should understand that their development is their responsibility, and that they should take the necessary steps to ensure they create the full possible benefit out of their training contract. After this course delegates should also have a thorough understanding of the ethical requirements and the professional skills expected of them.

Day 1: Structuring of the accounting profession a) The need to develop the correct professional attitude towards traineeship b) The different roles of SAICA and the IRBA c) The SAICA training contract d) SAICAs philosophy of training and how it assists with the holistic development of the trainee accountant e) The important influence a training officer can have on the trainee accountants professional development f) The responsibilities of the training officers g) Trainees’ personal responsibilities with regard to their own skills development and assessment (planning, rotation, opportunities, communication) h) SAICA Training Regulations The SAICA assessment process a) Understanding the CA training programme b) Assessment definition and principles of assessment c) Benefits and steps in the process d) Assessment instruments and processes e) Individuals and paperwork involved in the process f) Prescribed competency skills g) How to apply the assessment and appeals process h) SAICA's requirements, regulations and moderations report i) Explanations of the new ratings and decision trees j) Additional guidance and assessment forms *** Code of Professional Conduct - This requirement is covered as part of the Compulsory ethics training programme for SAICA Trainees (6 - 8 hours) - per C9 of the Accreditation Criteria for SAICA Trainining Offices, which is a separate course - please book separately *** Day2 (Optional - to be booked separately: Tall Trees Courses > Scheduled Courses > Basic Tall Trees Leadership Profile (TTLP) course) a) Your SAICA Articles – what’s in it for you? b) What to expect on my 1st day in Articles? c) Dealing with my 1st assignment – what to expect.. d) You and your Training Officer / Mentor / Coach e) You and your fellow trainees, members of senior staff, partners / directors f) Listen to some inspiring stories to keep an open mind and to help maintain energy levels and create a habit to learn and develop on your journey to success! g) Complete a temperament profile test with Tall Trees Profiles – learn what type of tree you are so that you can become a deep-rooted YOU! Gain self-knowledge, confirmation where you can make your greatest contribution. You will receive your own personalised Growth Plan! h) Knowledge of others: conflict management, cultural diversity, communication styles, time management i) Office etiquette j) The balancing act: Work-life-studies and maintaining stamina and endurance k) Tailor communication to different audiences, including interviewing the client, verbal, non-verbal and social media skills l) Start building your own brand m) Your bucket list for completing your SAICA Training Programme

All newly appointed trainee accountants to the SAICA environment irrespective of whether they are on a 3, 4 or 5 year contract.

Delegates must have the following available on the course day: Own computers (PC or laptop) with Excel and MS Word loaded onto the machine.

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