Audit Associate Review
at PKF Smith Cooper
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Audit
Birmingham
Review Submitted: February 2026
Overall Rating
4.6 /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!
5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
4.4/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
As a first‑year Audit Associate, I spend most of my time helping the team check that our clients’ financial information makes sense and is backed up by solid evidence. I get involved in testing numbers, looking through documents, and getting to know how different businesses work. A big part of the role is learning—figuring out the audit process, getting used to the software, and building confidence with the work. It’s a mix of supporting the team, asking questions, and developing the skills I need for bigger responsibilities later on.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Working across different teams and clients has strengthened my communication and teamwork skills, while managing multiple tasks has improved my organisation and adaptability. Overall, I’ve grown in confidence, taken ownership of my work, and gained a clearer understanding of how businesses operate, I’ve built a strong foundation of audit and analytical skills by performing detailed testing, using audit software confidently, and applying accounting knowledge in real situations.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend PKF Smith Cooper to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend PKF Smith Cooper to a friend because it’s a genuinely supportive place to start a career, with a strong focus on development and learning. The teams are approachable, easy to work with, and always willing to help, which makes a big difference when you’re new and still building confidence. There’s a good mix of responsibility and guidance, so you feel trusted but never unsupported. I’ve also enjoyed the variety of clients and industries, which keeps the work interesting and helps you grow quickly.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to PKF Smith Cooper?
I’d say not to worry about knowing everything in advance, showing enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and a positive attitude goes a long way.
