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BDO has welcomed over 600 school leaver apprentices, university graduates and students undertaking a placement across its UK offices.
More than half of the trainees, which join the firm’s 8,000-strong workforce across its audit, tax and advisory practices, will be based in regions outside London.
As part of their training programme, 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.
This year, 40 students from year 11-13 took part in the firm’s Explore BDO programme, designed for students from lower socio-economic backgrounds, whilst 22 university students took part in BDO’s Black Heritage Insight programme. Both programmes offer fast-track applications to students interested in applying for BDO’s apprenticeship or graduate positions.
The firm will also welcome over 80 students on a summer internship in July next year.
Paul Eagland, managing partner at BDO, said: “Welcoming our new cohort of trainees to the firm has always been one of my annual highlights, and this year is no exception. We know our insight and work experience programmes continue to make a real difference, with a number of students who took part in our 2022 and 2023 programmes having now completed their studies and joined the firm on our trainee pathway.
“As a firm, and for me personally, increasing access to accountancy is incredibly important; where a person starts in life should not determine where they end up.”
Eagland added: “As I come to the end of my tenure as managing partner, I can reflect on my own career journey and say that there is a challenging but hopefully incredibly rewarding and exciting road ahead for our new starters. Good luck to all those who are joining us this week.”
