National accountancy and advisory firm BDO has opened applications for 29 new trainee positions in its Bristol office as it continues to invest in its early-in-career programmes.
The 2025 trainee cohort will join the firm’s 8,000-strong workforce across its audit, tax, deals, and consulting, risk and outsourcing teams. 
Applications are open for school leaver apprenticeships, graduates and university students undertaking a 12-month industrial placement.
The majority will join the firm next September, with applications now open until 5 January 2025.
As part of its commitment to improving access to accountancy, BDO will also open applications for its summer work experience and insight programmes later in the year.
These include ‘Explore BDO’, a three-day programme aimed at improving social mobility and access to accountancy for those from less privileged backgrounds.
It is open to students in years 12 and 13 who meet the lower socio-economic criteria and are looking to understand what a career in accountancy might look like.
The firm will also recruit for its annual Black Heritage programme, aimed at first-year university students. Both programmes are open to candidates from across the UK. 
BDO South West managing partner David Brookes, pictured, said: “Just a few weeks after welcoming 25 new trainees to our office in Bristol, I am delighted we are starting our search for next year’s recruits and an even larger intake.
“Today’s world can feel uncertain, especially for young people making some important life decisions.
“Our role in progressing the next generation of professionals has never been more important.”
He said by offering a number of entry routes into the profession, including school leaver apprenticeships, the firm was determined to help improve access to accountancy in the South West and kickstart a fulfilling and potentially lifelong career for those who join.
“Initiatives like BDO’s Black Heritage and Explore BDO insight programmes, designed for those who may not have considered or know much about a career in accountancy, have a huge role in diversifying the talent pool in our industry,” he added.
Stanley Fraser, an audit trainee at BDO, started his graduate position last year after taking part in the Black Heritage Programme.
He said the programme had given him an insight into what a career in accountancy might look like, as well as exposure to the different roles available at BDO.
“I was studying Computer Science at university when I came across BDO’s insight programme and, for me, it changed the trajectory of my early career,” he added.
“I hadn’t considered accountancy before, but the people I spoke with throughout the week showed me how varied and interesting a career in this profession could be.
“After the Black Heritage programme, I also participated in a summer internship before being fast-tracked onto the firm’s graduate programme.
“Gaining this experience really broadens your awareness of how to grow and shape your career. For me it was the perfect opportunity to learn about BDO and the wider industry.”
BDO employs around 8,000 people in 18 offices across the UK offering tax, audit and assurance, and a range of advisory services. It is the UK member firm of the BDO international network.
