At a Glance
- Tasks: Support audit assignments and prepare financial statements while gaining hands-on experience.
- Company: Ballards LLP, a forward-thinking firm of chartered accountants with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Paid placement, professional development, and potential for ACA Graduate Programme after graduation.
- Why this job: Gain real insight into business operations and develop skills that set you apart.
- Qualifications: Enthusiastic students studying any degree; finance-related subjects are a plus.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with structured feedback and excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 11 - 13 £ per hour.
At Ballards LLP, our placement students are real members of the team - gaining hands-on experience, building confidence, and developing skills that set them apart when they graduate. Ballards LLP is a forward-thinking firm of chartered accountants based in Droitwich, Worcester, and Birmingham. Known for our supportive culture, modern approach, and commitment to developing future talent, Ballards delivers a wide range of accountancy services to organisations across a variety of sectors.
This is a paid placement year within our Audit & Accounts team, designed for university students completing a sandwich year as part of their degree. You’ll work alongside experienced professionals supporting a wide range of businesses - from growing owner-managed companies to larger, established organisations. No two days are the same, and you’ll gain real insight into how businesses operate behind the scenes.
During your placement, you’ll get involved in:
- Supporting audit assignments, both in the office and on client sites
- Assisting with the preparation of financial statements
- Working with accounting software and learning how financial data is analysed
- Collaborating with different teams and building confidence communicating with clients
- Developing your technical knowledge and professional skills in a supportive environment
You’ll be given responsibility, guidance, and structured feedback throughout the year — helping you grow in confidence and capability.
By the end of the year, you’ll have:
- A strong understanding of audit and accounts work
- Practical workplace skills employers love
- Experience working with real clients and real deadlines
- Greater confidence, professionalism, and commercial awareness
You will also have the opportunity after graduation to apply for our ACA Graduate Programme.
We’re looking for enthusiastic, reliable students who are:
- Currently studying towards a degree (any discipline considered, though finance-related subjects are helpful)
- Looking for a placement year as part of their course
- Curious, proactive, and eager to learn
- Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team
You don’t need prior accountancy experience - just a positive attitude and willingness to get involved.
Ready to start your journey? Find out more about Early Careers at Ballards LLP on our portal.
Undergraduate Placement Year – Audit & Accounts employer: Ballards LLP
Contact Detail:
Ballards LLP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Undergraduate Placement Year – Audit & Accounts
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Ballards LLP on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the placement. Personal connections can make a huge difference!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to audit and accounts. Think about how your studies relate to real-world scenarios. We want to see your enthusiasm and how you can apply what you've learned!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! If you’ve worked on any relevant projects or have experience with accounting software, be sure to mention it during interviews. We love seeing candidates who are proactive and ready to dive in!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Ballards LLP!
We think you need these skills to ace Undergraduate Placement Year – Audit & Accounts
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Audit & Accounts role. Highlight any relevant coursework or projects, and don’t forget to mention your enthusiasm for learning and teamwork!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express why you’re excited about this placement and how your background makes you a great fit. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Soft Skills: While technical skills are important, we also value soft skills like communication and teamwork. Share examples of how you've worked well in teams or tackled challenges in your studies or previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows your commitment to joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ballards LLP
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the basics of audit and accounts. Brush up on key terms and concepts that are relevant to the role at Ballards LLP. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also help you answer questions confidently.
✨Show Your Curiosity
Ballards LLP is looking for proactive students who are eager to learn. Prepare some thoughtful questions about the company culture, the team you'll be working with, and the types of clients they serve. This demonstrates your interest and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
✨Highlight Teamwork Skills
Since you'll be collaborating with different teams, think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully worked in a team. Be ready to discuss how you contributed and what you learned from those experiences, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Be Yourself
While it's important to be professional, don't forget to let your personality shine through. Ballards LLP values a supportive culture, so being genuine and approachable can set you apart. Share your passion for accountancy and how you see yourself growing within the firm.