Graduate Life at BDO
Starting your career is a big step. At BDO, we make sure it’s a rewarding one.
Whether you’re in your first year of university and exploring your options, or in your final year and ready to take the leap into the world of work, our graduate programme is designed to help you grow — professionally and personally.
Who we are
BDO is one of the UK’s largest accountancy and business advisory firms. We help ambitious businesses of all sizes navigate change and achieve their goals. But we’re more than just numbers. We’re a people-powered firm, built on collaboration, curiosity and care.
Our graduate programme is your opportunity to join a firm that values your individuality, supports your development, and gives you the tools to build a career that’s right for you.
What you’ll do
As a graduate at BDO, you’ll be part of a team from day one. You’ll work on real projects, with real clients, and make a real impact. Whether you join Audit, Tax, Advisory or Business Services & Outsourcing, you’ll gain hands-on experience while studying towards a professional qualification — like the ACA, ATT or CTA.
You’ll earn while you learn, supported by experienced colleagues who’ve been in your shoes. You’ll develop technical skills, soft skills and the confidence to take on new challenges. And you’ll do it all in a friendly, inclusive environment where your wellbeing matters.
A day in the life
Clara, a graduate trainee in Audit, shares what a typical day looks like:
"On a typical day working in the office at BDO, I will come in early before 8:30 so I can have free breakfast at Fibs, there is a range of food on offer from granola, fresh pastries to pots of a full English breakfast. I will sit and eat with my fellow trainees and then we grab a coffee and head upstairs to start work. My day consists of checking if I have had responses from the audited entity I am working with, setting up calls with them and my team for queries I have, and completing audit work. I go into the office most days as it is always helpful to communicate with your team face to face and socialise with the other trainees."
It’s not just about the work — it’s about the people. Clara adds:
"Everyone is so supportive of each other it can make the experience of starting out at a new company and role a lot less daunting… I feel very grateful to have such a large sociable intake, especially moving to London and not knowing many people, it made settling into a new city a lot easier."
Support that goes beyond the job
We know that starting a career can be intense — especially when you’re studying for exams too. That’s why we offer paid overtime, time off in lieu (TOIL), and study leave. We also run wellbeing initiatives, from step challenges during busy season to regular bulletins on mental health and staying active.
Clara explains:
"BDO supports my well-being and work-life balance by providing a supportive environment to voice if I am having any external issues that can affect me at work… They listen to us and value all the trainees’ opinions on what could be improved to create additional support in the workplace."
A place to belong
At BDO, you’ll find more than just colleagues — you’ll find community. From trainee-led social events to sports teams and cultural societies, there are plenty of ways to connect with others and get involved.
"BDO’s culture is very supportive and friendly. Outside of audit work there are many opportunities to socialise with everyone at the company. There are sports teams such as Hockey and Football where we play against other firms. Additionally, there are many societies for different religions and communities where you can join as a member or an ally to educate yourself and learn about the different cultures within BDO."
Your future, your way
Our graduate programme isn’t just a job — it’s the start of your career. With a respected qualification under your belt and experience across different sectors, you’ll be ready to take your next step — whether that’s staying in audit or exploring new paths.
"I feel obtaining my ACA is a great way to start my career… Whether I want to stay in audit or move forward into a different sector, the qualification has the versatility to be applied in various roles and teaches you a deep understanding of how businesses work."
Ready to start your journey? Explore our graduate opportunities and find your place at BDO.
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