At a Glance
- Tasks: Support real projects that drive the economy while gaining valuable experience.
- Company: Join BDO, a firm that values personal growth and teamwork.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional qualifications, and a supportive learning environment.
- Other info: Dynamic team culture with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while building a career that matters from day one.
- Qualifications: Three A-levels (or equivalent) at A*-C and GCSEs in Maths and English.
The predicted salary is between 26615 - 26615 £ per year.
A bit about us Big enough to matter. Personal enough to care. That’s BDO. Want to support decisions that drive the economy while building a career that matters from day one? Welcome to the Audit School Leaver Apprenticeship Programme at BDO. The programme starts on Monday, 21st September 2026 for a firm-wide induction (you’ll need to be able to attend). For Scotland roles you will start slightly earlier on the 31st August 2026.
Here, you’ll work on real projects with real impact, supporting ambitious, fast-growing businesses. You’ll be part of a team where your ideas are welcomed, your contributions matter, and your learning never stops. You’ll get opportunities to do complex work, access to high-profile clients, and real responsibility. And you’ll also get the personal support that makes a difference: joining as part of a trainee cohort, working towards qualifications alongside peers across the firm, and growing in a culture where you’re seen and supported.
This is your chance to learn the industry from the inside out. Over four years, you’ll work on audits that matter, gain insights into how businesses run, and study towards your ACA, CFAB, or ICAS/RGU qualification. Alongside in-house experts, you’ll build technical, personal and commercial skills that will last a career.
The Technology Risk Assurance Controls team supports the audit team by helping to identify and manage risks linked to a company’s financial systems. They focus on how these IT systems and processes work, looking for any weaknesses and checking that the right controls are in place to keep things secure and accurate. If areas are found that could be improved, the team share practical recommendations with the business.
When you complete the 4 year programme, a permanent role will be waiting.
As for you You’re resilient, curious, adaptable and have the drive to make a difference. You bring logical thinking, problem-solving, and a willingness to learn. We’ll help you sharpen your communication and teamwork skills, and give you the support to shape a career that works for you.
Join us in our Manchester, Edinburgh and Glasgow hubs. One thing to note: you’ll need to live within a commutable distance of the office you apply to. Relocation support is not provided, so please consider this carefully before applying. Time in the office matters; for your learning, for building relationships, and for being part of our culture.
Salary is £26,615 per annum.
Is it for you? To apply, you’ll need:
- Three A-levels (or equivalent) at A*-C (excluding General Studies and Extended Projects), or four Scottish Highers OR Advanced Highers at grade A-B. (or equivalent, for example, BTech extended diploma).
- GCSEs at grade 4 and above in Maths and English, or Scottish National 5 grade A-C.
- Commitment to balance study and professional work.
- The right to work in the UK (we are unable to provide visa sponsorship for these roles as they do not meet the current minimum salary requirements for sponsorship set by the Home Office. Applications from candidates who have their own legal right to work within the UK must cover the duration of their 4-year training contract and employment).
How the interview process will go We want you to know what to expect, so here’s the typical process:
- Online application form.
- Online assessments (with the option to sit these in our office, where we can provide a laptop and space if you don’t have access to one).
- Video interview.
- Virtual assessment centre.
- Final interview in-person.
We’ll keep you updated at each stage and share resources to help you prepare. And just so you know: we don’t use AI in any part of our candidate screening process. Every application is reviewed by a person.
Before you go We’ve got 18 offices across the UK, but wherever you join us, you’ll be part of a team that cares. You’ll learn by doing, be supported by people who’ve been in your shoes, and build skills that actually matter. We’re serious about your well-being, flexible about how you work, and offer benefits that support you inside and outside of work. Big enough to open doors. Personal enough to walk through them with you. Go Beyond the Ordinary with BDO. Apply now.
Our firm is distinctive because we preserve and build on the strengths of our culture and the characteristics that make us successful and different. We look for people from all kinds of backgrounds who share these same qualities.
2026 Audit School Leaver Apprenticeship Programme employer: BDO UK LLP
At BDO, we pride ourselves on being a supportive and inclusive employer, offering the Audit School Leaver Apprenticeship Programme that combines real-world experience with professional qualifications. Our Manchester, Edinburgh, and Glasgow hubs foster a collaborative work culture where your contributions are valued, and you have access to high-profile clients and complex projects. With a commitment to employee growth and well-being, we provide a nurturing environment that empowers you to build a meaningful career from day one.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 Audit School Leaver Apprenticeship Programme
✨Get Involved with Campus Recruitment Events
Apprenticeships in banking and financial services often come through campus recruitment days. Keep an eye out for events hosted by your university or local banks, as these can be golden opportunities for us to meet recruiters face-to-face and make a great first impression.
✨Engage with Professional Bodies
Join organisations like the Institute of Chartered Accountants or the Chartered Institute of Banking. These memberships can provide valuable resources and networking opportunities, plus, they often have dedicated sections for apprenticeships and early-career roles that can point us in the right direction.
✨Follow the Right Companies on Social Media
Banks and financial services firms love to share their stories on social media! Follow companies like BDO UK LLP to keep up with their latest apprenticeship opportunities and insider news. Engaging with their posts could give us an edge when it comes to the application.
✨Utilise Your University’s Career Service
Your university's career service is a treasure trove of information for apprenticeships in banking. They often have connections to employers like BDO UK LLP, so don't hesitate to tap into their resources and advice!
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Audit School Leaver Apprenticeship Programme
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Maths Skills:In the banking and financial services sector, being good with numbers is a must! Make sure to highlight any relevant maths qualifications or experience in your application, as well as any projects or coursework that demonstrate your analytical skills.
Emphasise Your Willingness to Learn:As this is an apprenticeship, companies like BDO UK LLP want to see your enthusiasm for the industry and your eagerness to learn. In your cover letter, chat about why you’re interested in banking and any specific areas you’re excited to explore. Show them that you’re ready to soak up knowledge like a sponge!
Highlight Relevant Experience (Even If It's Limited):Whether it's a part-time job, volunteer experience, or even a school project, mention any relevant experience related to banking or finance. This could include customer service roles or any projects where you handled budgeting. We’re all about showing how you can apply your skills, even if they’re from unconventional backgrounds.
Tailor Your CV for Impact:Make sure your CV isn’t just a list of duties. Tailor it to reflect skills that appeal to financial services, like attention to detail and communication skills. Don’t forget to keep it clear and concise, showing how you’re a perfect fit for the apprenticeship at BDO UK LLP!
How to prepare for a job interview at BDO UK LLP
✨Brush Up on Financial Principles
Since you're diving into the banking and financial sector with an apprenticeship, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with key concepts like interest rates, investment strategies, and basic financial accounting. Make sure you can share your understanding of these principles during the interview, as they'll likely pop up in practical scenarios.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
In the world of banking, interviewers love to throw real-world scenarios at you. Prepare for questions that ask how you'd handle customer inquiries or solve financial challenges. Practising these types of situational responses can really showcase your problem-solving skills and customer service abilities, both of which are essential in this field.
✨Show Your Eagerness to Learn
As an apprenticeship candidate, what's going to set you apart is your motivation to learn and grow in the role. Be sure to express your excitement about entering the banking world and highlight any steps you've already taken to educate yourself, whether through courses, workshops, or relevant hobbies.
✨Prepare Your Questions About Company Culture
When interviewing with BDO UK LLP, don’t shy away from asking about their company culture and training programmes for apprentices. This shows that you're not only focused on the role but also interested in how you'll fit within the team, which is a major factor for your future success in the apprenticeship.
