Accountancy and business advisory firm BDO has welcomed 25 new trainees to its Bristol office this week, with more than 600 starting across the UK.

The trainees, who join the firm’s 8,000-strong workforce across its audit, tax and advisory practices, are a combination of school leaver apprentices, university graduates and students undertaking a 12-month industrial placement.

As part of their training, the majority of new joiners will also have the opportunity to undertake a Level 7 apprenticeship programme, resulting in a qualification equivalent to a masters degree.

David Brookes, Regional Managing Partner at BDO in the South West, said:

“I’m always delighted to welcome our annual cohort of new trainees to our office in Bristol. This young talent never fails to bring a fresh perspective, enthusiasm, energy, and a thirst for knowledge.”

Now in its fourth year, BDO will again be delivering its targeted insight programmes as part of its commitment to increasing diversity in the profession.

This year, 40 students from years 11-13 took part in the firm’s Explore BDO programme, designed for students from lower socio-economic backgrounds, and a further 22 university students took part in BDO’s Black Heritage Insight programme. Once completed, both offer fast-track applications to students interested in applying for BDO’s apprenticeship or graduate positions.

In addition, BDO will welcome over 80 students on a summer internship in July of next year – three of whom will be based in Bristol.

Brookes added:

“We know our insight and work experience programmes across the country continue to make a real difference.

“As a firm, and for me, as someone whose career in the profession began as a school leaver apprentice, increasing access to accountancy is incredibly important. At BDO, we’re committed to opening up as many opportunities as possible to a diverse group of young people who will play a vital role in helping to shape not only the firm but our industry in years to come. Good luck to all those who are joining us this week.”

https://www.bdo.co.uk/