What type of work do you do in your first month as an audit trainee?

Starting your journey as an audit trainee at Carpenter Box is a combination of learning and exciting new challenges. In your first month as an audit trainee, you’re not just introduced to the world of auditing; you become an integral part of a dynamic team that delves into a variety of tasks.

Work variety

At Carpenter Box, the scope of work for an audit trainee extends beyond the traditional realms of auditing. While the primary focus is on audits, trainees also engage in tasks related to accounts and corporation tax preparation, adding layers of variety to their daily responsibilities. Specialised audits further enrich the experience, providing a well-rounded introduction to the diverse facets of the financial world.

A structured onboarding experience

Your first few days kick off with a comprehensive induction, a gateway to understanding Carpenter Box, meeting audit colleagues, and acquainting yourself with the systems and software vital to daily operations. Guiding you through this initial phase is your designated mentor—a go-to person for questions and queries. Regular mentor meetings become not only a space for seeking guidance but also a crucial tool for your professional development, utilising Carpenter Box’s mentor framework.

Hands-on experience from day one

As the week progresses, you will transition into hands-on work. The audit process unfolds in three key stages: audit planning, audit fieldwork, and audit completion. In your first week, you get the chance to delve into audit planning, a critical stage conducted primarily in the office. Working collaboratively with the audit team, you contribute to ensuring meticulous planning aligned with the overall objective.

Versatility in clientele and industries

Carpenter Box provides a unique environment where, even as a trainee, you work with individuals at various levels—trainees, seniors, managers, and partners. The client portfolio spans diverse industries, from charities and travel companies to construction firms and solicitors. While specialisation may develop as you progress, the initial exposure ensures ongoing variety in your tasks and challenges.

Onsite audit fieldwork

Within your first month, you’re introduced to the exciting phase of audit fieldwork. Usually conducted on-site at the client’s premises, this phase occurs shortly after the completion of audit planning. Your journey to the client’s location, whether close to home or requiring a bit of a commute, becomes an opportunity to bond with your colleagues.

Setting up a base for the week, you begin audit testing. This hands-on experience involves utilising the client’s systems, reviewing invoices, and scrutinising bank statements. Collaborating with the audit team, you will immerse yourself in the intricacies of the client’s operations. Towards the week’s end, the audit manager joins the team on-site, offering valuable insights and ensuring the team’s work aligns seamlessly with Carpenter Box’s standards.

The first month as an audit trainee at Carpenter Box isn’t just an introduction; it’s an immersive experience that sets the stage for continuous growth and development. The diversity of tasks, exposure to varied industries, and the supportive mentorship structure create a stimulating environment for budding professionals.

Ready to dive into a career where every day brings a new challenge?

Explore the possibilities and register your interest for our next round of our Traineeship Program and embark on a journey of professional exploration at Carpenter Box.