Audit Associate Review
at PKF Smith Cooper
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Audit
Birmingham
Review Submitted: April 2026
Overall Rating
5 /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
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
5/5
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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:
5/5
My role as an Audit Associate at PKF Smith Cooper involves working across a variety of audit engagements, which means each day brings something different and keeps the work interesting. I spend my time carrying out audit testing, preparing working papers, and communicating with clients and colleagues, all of which has helped me build confidence in a professional environment. Alongside this, I’m completing the Level 7 ACA apprenticeship, allowing me to apply what I learn directly to real audit scenarios. The managers and senior team are incredibly supportive, offering guidance on both my day‑to‑day work and my exam commitments, creating an environment where I can develop quickly and feel genuinely supported in my progression.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
My experience on the Level 7 ACA apprenticeship programme at PKF Smith Cooper has been overwhelmingly positive. I genuinely enjoy the programme because it offers the right balance of challenge, variety, and support, which makes the journey both rewarding and motivating.
I also enjoy how much the programme has helped me grow in confidence. Regular interaction with clients and colleagues has pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way. I’ve become more comfortable asking questions, presenting my work, and communicating clearly with people at all levels.
I also enjoy how much the programme has helped me grow in confidence. Regular interaction with clients and colleagues has pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way. I’ve become more comfortable asking questions, presenting my work, and communicating clearly with people at all levels.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I’ve developed a wide range of new skills since starting my role, both technically and personally. My audit work has strengthened my analytical abilities, attention to detail, and understanding of financial statements, while working across different engagements has taught me how to adapt quickly to new situations. I’ve also become much more confident in communicating with clients and colleagues, learning how to ask the right questions, present information clearly, and manage professional conversations. On top of that, balancing my day‑to‑day responsibilities with the ACA apprenticeship has helped me build strong organisational skills and resilience. Altogether, these experiences have pushed me to grow in ways that feel genuinely meaningful and have prepared me well for the next stages of my career.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
Very structured and organised
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
The managers and senior team are consistently encouraging, approachable, and invested in my development. They understand the pressure of balancing work with ACA exams and always make sure I have the time, guidance, and reassurance I need. That level of support makes a big difference and creates a workplace where you feel valued.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I receive a great deal of support from my training provider while working towards my qualifications, and it’s made a noticeable difference to my progress. They offer clear guidance, structured resources, and regular check‑ins that help me stay on track with both my studies and my apprenticeship requirements.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
I feel that the qualification I’m working towards through my training provider has a really strong and positive impact on how I perform in my role. The ACA content directly links to the work I do day‑to‑day, so the technical knowledge I gain in my studies helps me understand audit processes more clearly and approach tasks with more confidence.
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
There are regular volunteering opportunities, including supporting local charities and getting involved in community projects, which is a great way to give something back while meeting colleagues from different teams. There are also wellbeing activities such as yoga and Pilates sessions, as well as group runs and even gardening initiatives for those who enjoy something more hands‑on.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend PKF Smith Cooper to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would strongly recommend PKF Smith Cooper because the team culture and level of support genuinely set the firm apart. From day one, you feel part of a collaborative, friendly environment where people at every level are approachable and willing to help. The managers and senior staff are especially supportive, offering guidance, feedback, and encouragement that make a real difference both in day‑to‑day audit work and when balancing exams through the ACA apprenticeship. There’s a real sense that everyone wants you to succeed, and that creates a workplace where you can grow quickly, build confidence, and enjoy what you do. The combination of a positive culture, supportive colleagues, and opportunities to develop makes PKF Smith Cooper a place I’m proud to recommend.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to PKF Smith Cooper?
I’d advise applicants to show enthusiasm, be willing to learn, and make the most of the supportive culture at PKF Smith Cooper. Ask questions, get involved, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. The team is friendly, approachable, and always happy to help you grow. Highlight your teamwork and adaptability, as the role is varied and collaborative. Most importantly, be yourself.
