2027 Tax School Leaver Apprenticeship Programme

About BDO

Big ambitions meet personal investment. That’s Beyond the Ordinary. If you are ready to start your career and get stuck into real work, welcome to the Tax School Leaver Apprenticeship at BDO.

The programme starts on Monday, 20th September 2027, and requires full organizational attendance.

BDO’s Tax practice spans 13 specialist areas, including Employment Tax, Private Client, and Tax Dispute Resolution. You will learn from experts across one of the largest and most diverse Employment Tax teams and one of the largest national Tax Dispute Resolution teams. Our tax professionals work with clients ranging from FTSE 100 companies to high-growth start-ups, providing you with exposure to diverse businesses and their challenges.

You will learn by doing, building your knowledge and confidence through client work. You will be supported by experienced colleagues who are ready to answer questions, share knowledge, and help you develop. This is a place where people are personally invested in turning your big ambitions into a thriving career.

About the Tax Program

Over four years, you will gain hands-on experience while studying towards a professional qualification such as ACA/CTA or ATT/CTA (Tax pathway). You will build strong technical knowledge through Tax work, develop your commercial skills, and learn directly from experienced professionals.

As you develop, you will be given opportunities to take on increased responsibility, work with clients, and explore your interests. Alongside this experience, you will receive dedicated training and support to build your confidence and continue progressing. Starting your career from school is a major step, which is why you will have dedicated mentors to guide you while simultaneously being trusted to build real experience.

Upon completion of the programme, a permanent role will be awaiting you.

About You

We are looking for someone who is inquisitive, adaptable, and eager to learn. You enjoy delving into detail, thinking things through logically, and collaborating with others. You do not need prior tax knowledge; bring your curiosity, logical thinking, and willingness to learn, and we will provide the experience and support to build upon it.

Locations

Join us in Birmingham, Ipswich, London, Reading, or Southampton.

Important Note: You must live within a commutable distance of the office you apply to. Relocation support is not provided, so please consider this carefully. In-person time is crucial for learning, building relationships, and maximizing the benefits of teamwork, whether that is in the office or with clients.

Eligibility and Requirements

To apply, you must meet the following criteria:

• Three A-levels (or equivalent) at A*-C (excluding General Studies and Extended Projects), or four Scottish Advanced Highers at grade A-B (or equivalent, such as BTEC Extended Diploma). Please note: we do not use UCAS points. Evidence of these qualifications will be required upon offer.
• GCSEs at grade 4 and above in Maths and English, or Scottish National 5 grade A-C. Evidence will be required if successful.
• A commitment to balancing study alongside professional work.
• The legal right to work in the UK. (We cannot provide visa sponsorship for these roles as they do not meet the current minimum salary requirements set by the Home Office. Applications must come from candidates with existing legal right to work in the UK for the duration of the 4-year training contract and employment.)

The Interview Process

We want you to know what to expect. The typical selection process includes:

1. Online application form.
2. Online assessments.
3. Video interview.
4. Virtual assessment centre.
5. Final in-person interview.

We will keep you updated at each stage and share preparation tips. Please note: We do not use AI in any part of our candidate screening process; every application is reviewed by a real person.

What We Offer

Compensation and Benefits

Salary: £26,615 - £28,275 (dependent on location)

Benefits: Our benefits are designed to support your life both in and out of work, including options such as additional leave, gym membership, and employee discounts, alongside provision for pension, health and wellbeing support, and a range of protection benefits.

Application Details

Closing Date: Sunday 15th November 2026

Join Us

Starting your career is a significant step. At BDO, you get the chance to learn by doing, work with clients, and build strong foundations for whatever your career aspirations may be. You bring the big ambitions; we invest in your learning, confidence, and development from day one.

Our organization is distinctive because we preserve and build on the strengths of our culture and the characteristics that make us successful and different. We seek people from all backgrounds who share these qualities.

Apply now to be part of something Beyond the Ordinary.