Audit Trainee

Kayne is a Trainee in Audit at BDO, navigating the transition from school to the professional world. His journey is marked by learning on the job, balancing study with work, and embracing the challenges of a busy season. In this conversation, Kayne shares insights into his apprenticeship experience, offering a glimpse into the life of a BDO apprentice and the skills that have proven invaluable in his day-to-day work.

What can you expect from an apprenticeship at BDO in terms of learning and development?

Starting an apprenticeship at BDO, you can expect to dive straight into learning and development. Initially, you'll receive the training needed to get started, but most of the learning happens on the job. It's all about learning from managers and seniors who have been in your shoes. You're not expected to know everything right away, so it's a great opportunity to ask as many questions as possible.

How do you balance studying with your work responsibilities during your apprenticeship?

Balancing study with work responsibilities is all about consistency. I try to study for at least an hour every evening after work and more on weekends. If I'm feeling motivated, I'll even squeeze in an hour before work.

What has been the biggest change for you moving from school to working at BDO?

The biggest change moving from school to BDO is the shift from working towards a single goal, like A levels or GCSEs, to a more varied work environment. While I still study for the ACA, the day-to-day work feels longer term, with the focus on delivery rather than a specific end goal.

How does BDO support your studies alongside your apprenticeship duties?

BDO supports my studies by providing blocks of study leave and in-person lessons at BPP. If you talk to your managers and the professional qualifications team, they can help adjust your work and study schedules. Communication is a crucial skill in my day-to-day work. It's important to keep colleagues informed about your progress and any challenges you might face. A willingness to learn is equally important—being curious and interested in your work can add variety to your day.

What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship at BDO?

For anyone considering an apprenticeship at BDO, my advice is to be ready to work hard but also have fun and seize opportunities. I've met many people and had great experiences just by saying yes to networking or university events. The transition from classroom learning to practical work was challenging at first. Getting used to a professional atmosphere and understanding that your actions reflect on both yourself and your workplace when dealing with clients was a big adjustment.

What challenges have you faced during your apprenticeship, and how have you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges I've faced is adjusting to the busy season, especially in TRA where you might manage multiple engagements at once. It really tested my endurance. To overcome it, I sought advice from my people manager and buddy, and took the occasional day off to recharge. Managing time effectively between work and study commitments is all about consistency. Use annual leave alongside study leave if needed, and communicate with your managers about your exam schedule and workload. They can often provide some leeway or additional support.

Kayne's experience as a Trainee at BDO highlights the importance of communication, willingness to learn, and the ability to balance work and study. His journey reflects the challenges and rewards of an apprenticeship, offering valuable insights for anyone considering a similar path. With the support of BDO and a proactive approach, Kayne is navigating his apprenticeship with determination and enthusiasm.