Audit Trainee Review
at BDO
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Accounting
Nottingham
Review Submitted: May 2023
Overall Rating
4.4 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
4.5/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
3.8/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
As an audit trainee, I am part of the audit team on several large audited entities. This can vary across different industries. Daily tasks vary, but include working on the file to complete all of the required audit tests. This involves discussion with the audited entity as well as team work
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I really enjoy the work. Every day is different, and although you can apply your knowledge from previous audited entities, every entity has something different. You can take the role as far as you would like, taking part in as much or as little as you would like to. I find it enjoyable to work on different sectors and reflect on how my role has developed
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Every day you learn something new. Through the qualification you learn new things, and then can apply this to the job. You not only learn for the qualification, but also can develop soft skills like communication. In addition, the apprenticeship has skills and behaviours requirements to develop these necessary professional skills
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The ACA is well structured, with 6 certificate, 6 professional and 3 advanced level examinations in addition to skills and behaviours for the apprenticeship.
Once you are clear on the pathway and due dates for items such as the skills and behaviours, the programme is well structured and clear on what the next step is
Once you are clear on the pathway and due dates for items such as the skills and behaviours, the programme is well structured and clear on what the next step is
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
BDO provide support in many ways. From support from people managers (line managers) who monitor progress and help you to complete the ICAEW training file, to buddy's who are trainees from previous peer groups that guide you through both the job and the qualification. BDO also have dedicated teams for professional qualifications and have wellbeing support available
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
BPP have upgraded their 'hub' which includes pre-recorded content videos which are great for refreshers, forums, where tutors will answer questions (specific from question banks/past exams or more general understanding), in addition to real-time classes (on line or in person). There are also progress reviews every 6 months to see how you are getting on with the apprenticeship and suggest improvements and advise on where help can be found
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
The knowledge learnt in the qualifications definitely is useful in the job as your progress. At first, when performing limited tasks they did not seem as relevant. However, particular exam papers (such as the professional level items) can be useful within the work. I often find myself referring to my notes to determine whether the accounting treatment is correct / reasonable
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
3/5
BDO have peer groups, who meet regularly and often plan activities. In addition, BDO put on several events such as socials, Christmas meals, away days, celebrations etc. We also have sports teams such as netball and football. There also events put on within the midlands offices to develop / network. BDO are open to suggestions and will start teams/ create socials if there is a request for it
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BDO to a friend?
Yes
Why?
BDO is a large, well known firm. In particular, the Nottingham office is small and friendly. Especially throughout the qualification, everyone is supportive and there is plenty of opportunities to improve, get involved, and try new things. There is also post qualification opportunities such as secondments, moving offices and such
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BDO?
Embody BDOs values, which includes being bold and having integrity. The firm encourages you to be yourself at work, and so if you apply to BDO, being yourself in the interview is important. Of course, BDO strive to hire people with potential, and so a good focus on studies is also important. However, a knowledge of what is happening in the world (economic events, crises that would effect audited entities) etc, is also very important. Considering the future and what could affect the way we work is encouraged!
